Bosch Aims for Leading Role in Advancing German Hydrogen Economy

Date

7 August 2023

Clean energy transition

The German government anticipates the crucial role of hydrogen in the transition to clean energy. Industry titan Bosch has been actively engaged in hydrogen development for years and is now poised to increase its investments further. Bosch is partnering with truck manufacturer Nikola to develop essential fuel cell technology.

This announcement coincides with the German government’s finalization of an enhanced hydrogen strategy. The federal government envisions a significant role for hydrogen in transportation, residential and commercial heating, and industrial applications.

Future outlook

Despite hydrogen’s limited availability in Europe and the demand for substantial renewable energy for its production, both Germany and the Netherlands recognize hydrogen’s pivotal role in the energy transition.

Bosch is eager to take a leading position in shaping the ‘hydrogen economy’ being pursued by Berlin. As Germany’s largest private company with nearly half a million employees worldwide, Bosch aims to contribute across the entire value chain.

Bosch intends to participate not only in hydrogen production but also in developing the necessary technology and components for the required systems and infrastructure. Their goal is to achieve an annual revenue of €5 billion from these endeavors by 2030.

Bosch identifies fuel cell systems as a cornerstone for sustainable energy provision. These versatile devices, usable both in stationary and mobile applications, have the potential to substantially reduce CO₂ emissions. By generating clean electricity from hydrogen, provided renewable energy sources are used, fuel cell systems can play a role in various contexts, including decentralized energy centers for urban areas and businesses.

Bosch’s commitment to hydrogen is evident in its collaboration with American electric truck manufacturer, Nikola, where they are producing mobile fuel cells in Stuttgart. Bosch is also launching mobile fuel cell production in China.

This conglomerate aims to tap into new markets as the transition away from gasoline and diesel vehicles takes place, capitalizing on its status as the world’s largest auto industry supplier.

Impact on the Netherlands

The increased hydrogen investments by Bosch will also have an impact in the Netherlands. The Bosch facility in Tilburg is set to become a crucial player in the development and mass production of thin metal components for electric motors, hydrogen, and fuel cell technologies. Meanwhile, the current production of transmission belts will be relocated to the sister factory in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Source: FD