© Axpo

Swiss energy company Axpo has commenced construction of its second green hydrogen production facility, the 2MW H2Uri project, near the Bürglen hydropower plant in central Switzerland. This initiative will support decarbonization efforts across the country, including fueling a hydrogen-powered passenger vessel on Lake Lucerne.

Green Hydrogen for Lake Lucerne and Beyond

The H2Uri plant, powered by green electricity from the Bürglen hydropower facility operated by EWA-Energi Uri, is set to produce up to 260 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. Scheduled to begin operations next year, its output will supply diverse applications, including a newly converted hydrogen-powered vessel, the Saphir. Constructed by Shiptec, this vessel will use a fuel cell system to cut emissions significantly during lake operations.

In addition to maritime applications, local refueling infrastructure will also benefit. Schätzle, which manages the Avia hydrogen station in central Switzerland, will distribute green hydrogen from the plant, broadening its reach across various mobility sectors.

Building on Experience and Expanding Infrastructure

This project follows Axpo’s success with its first green hydrogen plant in Domat/Ems, a 2.5MW facility that came online earlier in 2024. Reflecting on lessons learned, Guy Bühler, Axpo’s Head of Power Plants and Green Gases, emphasized the strategic importance of hydrogen in decarbonizing Switzerland. “This project in Bürglen is a continuation of our strategy to play our part in the development of the hydrogen ecosystem in Switzerland,” Bühler stated.

Looking ahead, Axpo plans to build another green hydrogen plant in Wildegg-Brugg, set to begin construction in spring 2025 after initial delays. The Wildegg-Brugg facility will further enhance Axpo’s production capacity, while interim supply will come from the Domat/Ems and Bürglen sites.

A Commitment to Decarbonization

Despite broader challenges in the hydrogen sector, Axpo remains optimistic about hydrogen’s role in reducing emissions. By aligning with Switzerland’s renewable energy resources, the company aims to create a sustainable ecosystem that supports both mobility and industrial needs.