Bosch’s ELYAS project will convert the Bramberg plant from making internal combustion engines to producing PEM electrolysis stacks, essential for hydrogen production. This transition is expected to reduce CO₂ emissions significantly and create jobs, benefiting the local economy. The initiative has secured €52 million from the Innovation Fund to aid the transformation.
The ELYAS project by Bosch is transforming its Bramberg, Germany plant, currently dedicated to internal combustion engine production, into a manufacturing site for PEM electrolysis stacks. This transition represents a significant shift towards clean technology, utilizing existing facilities while retaining part of the workforce. The site is set to become a leading industrial hub for electrolyser production, moving away from traditional automotive components toward renewable hydrogen solutions.
PEM electrolysis stacks play a crucial role in hydrogen production, efficiently breaking down water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy. This technology is vital for achieving sustainable energy transitions, with ELYAS expected to prevent 22.6 million tonnes of CO₂ emissions over the next decade, which is comparable to Croatia’s total CO₂ emissions in 2022. Such emission reductions emphasize the importance of hydrogen technology in Europe’s climate initiatives.
Leveraging its automotive experience, Bosch developed a reliable and scalable production method for PEM electrolyser components. ELYAS will receive nearly €52 million from the Innovation Fund to enhance its Bamberg facilities, which ranks as Bosch Group’s second-largest globally. Carola Ruse, Senior Vice President of Bosch’s Electrolyzer Solutions, noted, “By scaling hydrogen production, Bosch is helping to pave the way for a carbon-neutral future in Europe.”
The ELYAS initiative aims to create jobs and develop a regional supply chain for hydrogen technology, generating significant economic benefits for the Bamberg area. Experienced local suppliers, including those producing combustion engine components, are poised to support this shift. The North Bavaria economy, reliant on the automotive sector and employing around 15,000, stands to gain remarkably from this transition.
The Innovation Fund, supported by revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System, is one of the largest global funding sources for innovative low-carbon technologies. It targets high-impact clean technology projects that can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
The ELYAS project represents a pivotal shift from internal combustion engine production to hydrogen technology at Bosch’s Bramberg plant, emphasizing sustainability and local economic growth. With significant emission reductions expected and substantial funding secured, ELYAS is positioned to play a crucial role in advancing Europe’s clean energy transition while safeguarding jobs and enhancing local supply chains.
Original Source: cinea.ec.europa.eu
