BMW to Revolutionize Leipzig Plant's Energy Supply with Hydrogen Pipeline by 2027
BMW is set to revolutionize its Leipzig plant's energy supply. The carmaker has signed deals with Mitnetz Gas and Ontras Gastransport to construct a hydrogen pipeline, aiming to become the world's first car production site supplied with hydrogen via a pipeline by 2027.
The hydrogen backbone network, expected to span 9,000 kilometers by 2032, will gradually connect Germany to regional networks. BMW's pipeline, led by Mitnetz Gas and supported by Ontras Gastransport, will link the Leipzig plant to this nationwide network.
BMW has already prepared its plant for hydrogen use. Eleven fuel-flexible burners in the paint shop can switch between natural gas and hydrogen. Over 230 hydrogen-powered forklifts and tractor supply vehicles are already in operation. From mid-2027, the pipeline is expected to supply the plant with hydrogen, replacing truck deliveries. This will enable larger-scale hydrogen use, particularly benefiting energy-intensive processes like dryers in the paint shop.
The pipeline supply will significantly reduce BMW's carbon footprint and enhance its sustainability efforts. Petra Peterhänsel, head of BMW Group Plant Leipzig, sees this as a crucial step towards a more sustainable future in car production.
Read also:
- Enhancing the framework or setup for efficient operation and growth
- Hydroelectric Power Generation Industry Forecasted to Expand to USD 413.3 Billion by 2034, Projected Growth Rate of 5.8% Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR)
- Rapid EV Charging Progress by 2025: Speedier Refueling for Electric Vehicles
- Airport in the U.S. Contemplates Nuclear Energy, Sparks Swift Opposition
