In Vienna, the long-term use of hydrogen in a power plant is being tested for the first time worldwide. The “Krone” was able to take a look behind the scenes.
By 2040, natural gas in energy generation in Vienna is to be completely replaced by climate-neutral energy sources. Therefore, one of the largest gas turbines in Austria is currently being converted on the site of the Donaustadt power plant. In 2023, Wien Energie, RheinEnergie, Siemens Energy and VERBUND want to add hydrogen for power generation for the first time as part of an operational trial. This test is the first of its kind in the world on a commercially used gas and steam turbine plant in this power class. Conversion work at full speed In addition to preparing for the addition of hydrogen, Wien Energie can also increase the efficiency of the power plant by a total of around 23 megawatts by converting the turbine . Improved turbine blades, a new combustion system, a fuel gas analyzer and a new control system were installed as part of the conversion work. The combustion chamber was also optimized and prepared for the operational test. Hydrogen content still low at the beginning The conversion should be completed in a few days, then the first test phase will begin. The addition of hydrogen will be tested from summer 2023. In the experiment, hydrogen is added to the normally used energy carrier, natural gas. In the first test phase, the hydrogen content is 15 percent by volume. In the second step, it is increased to 30 percent. If the test is successful, the system should be certified for continuous operation. The experts expect the first concrete results by the end of 2023. More on this shortly.
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