H2sea, Bosch Thin Metal Technologies and TNO are proud to report the successful completion of the Innovative Process Design for Offshore H₂ (IPOSH) project. This pioneering study aimed to optimize the design of offshore H₂ production systems, reducing the levelized cost of H₂ (LCOH) by 10%─20% and achieved this goal. The project was made possible through the support of the Dutch TKI Offshore Energy Program.

Traditionally, electrolyzer stacks are designed first, with the balance of stack (BoS) and balance of plant (BoP) components selected afterward to accommodate the stacks. However, the IPOSH project is among the first in the world to consider all components equally important from the outset. This integrated approach ensured that cost savings were realized through simultaneous optimization rather than retrofitting elements to pre-designed stacks. By designing the overall system, the project aimed to achieve a higher level of efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Lifecycle-based methodology for long-term efficiency. The IPOSH project has adopted a lifecycle-based methodology, evaluating critical aspects such as plant design, transport, installation, maintenance, operation, and decommissioning. Through a model-based analysis, the project assessed stack replacement rates under different operational scenarios and module sizes to enhance efficiency and longevity.

A key focus of the project was to establish general requirements for offshore electrolysis, addressing factors such as system footprint, maintenance needs, and environmental impact. By implementing a system engineering approach, the partners ensured that the electrolyzer system was holistically optimized rather than constrained by existing design limitations. This will enable the identification of the most cost-effective and scalable configurations for future offshore H₂ production.

By leveraging the combined expertise of H2sea, TNO, and Bosch, the findings of the IPOSH project will provide valuable guidance for future developments, strengthening the role of offshore H₂ in achieving a sustainable, low-carbon energy system.