Lhyfe, a pioneering force in green and renewable hydrogen production, has announced the commencement of construction for its first green hydrogen plant in northern France. Located in Croixrault, within the Somme region of Hauts-de-France, this project marks a significant step towards decarbonizing industrial operations and mobility in the region.

The Croixrault plant, situated at the Mine d’Or business park near the A29 motorway, represents a key component of Lhyfe’s expanding European presence. Scheduled to commence operations in 2026, the facility will boast a 5-MW electrolysis capacity, enabling the production and distribution of up to two tons of green hydrogen daily. This output is equivalent to the fuel required for a hydrogen-powered truck to travel approximately 25,000 kilometers.

Lhyfe's approach centers on producing hydrogen through water electrolysis powered by renewable electricity. This process ensures a clean and sustainable hydrogen supply, crucial for industries and transportation sectors seeking to reduce their carbon footprint. The Croixrault project aligns with the broader ambitions of the Communauté de Communes Somme Sud-Ouest, a local authority encompassing 119 communities. The initiative aims to stimulate local job creation and foster a favorable economic climate for businesses.

The Croixrault plant is designed to serve the numerous manufacturers and mobility stakeholders across the Hauts-de-France region. Industries such as chemicals, metallurgy, steel, and glass, which are prominent in the area, can leverage green hydrogen to decarbonize their processes. This transition can involve replacing existing "grey" hydrogen (produced from fossil fuels) with the clean alternative, adopting new hydrogen-based production methods, or even fostering the development of entirely new industries.

Beyond industrial applications, the plant's output will also cater to the region's transportation needs. Hauts-de-France, a major logistics hub, will benefit from a green hydrogen supply for fuel stations serving heavy goods vehicles, as well as for logistics platforms and various hydrogen mobility applications, including buses and refuse collection vehicles.

Lhyfe's commitment to regional coverage is evident in its expanding network across France. With existing sites in the West (Pays de la Loire and Brittany), South-West (Occitanie), and another under construction in the East (Auvergne Rhône-Alpes), the Croixrault plant completes Lhyfe’s national footprint, ensuring widespread access to green hydrogen.

Furthermore, the Croixrault facility will play a crucial role in stabilizing the regional power grid. Lhyfe’s controllable electrolysis process allows the plant to modulate its electricity consumption in response to grid operator requests, providing valuable support during periods of peak demand. This grid-balancing capability enhances the reliability and resilience of the energy system in Hauts-de-France.