How feasible is hydrogen for off-grid schools?

New buildings such as schools increasingly face grid congestion – a lack of capacity on the electricity network. Hydrogen is often mentioned as a potential solution, but how practical is it in reality? A recent study explored whether a primary school in Rheden could operate completely off-grid using solar power combined with hydrogen production and storage.

Technically feasible, but not yet financially viable

The study examined both the technical and financial feasibility of a hydrogen-based energy system for schools without a grid connection. The results show that it is technically possible for a school to run entirely on solar energy and hydrogen. Surplus solar power generated in summer can be converted into hydrogen and stored, then used during winter for heating and electricity.

However, financial viability remains a significant hurdle. The costs of an autonomous hydrogen system are still considerably higher than those of a conventional grid connection. Further innovation and policy support are therefore needed to make hydrogen more widely applicable in the built environment.

Step-by-step plan for future hydrogen systems

In addition to technical insights, the study produced a generic roadmap that can help other schools and municipalities assess whether hydrogen is a suitable solution when facing grid congestion. The roadmap outlines the necessary installations, safety requirements, and permitting process.

Invest-NL is committed to making sustainable innovations financeable, contributing to the energy transition. The insights gained from this project will help future initiatives to be realised more quickly and efficiently. Curious about the full results and step-by-step plan?