Earlier this month, Douglas County PUD Commissioners invited the community to learn about and see the new renewable hydrogen production facility located in Baker Flats. The District is close to commissioning the first renewable hydrogen production facility in the nation owned and operated by a public utility.
The event took place on Oct. 8th, which is National Hydrogen Day and takes place during Public Power Week.
The pilot project will provide flexibility to Douglas PUD operations at their Wells Hydroelectric Project. Generation requests can be sent to the hydrogen electrolyzer to reduce the mechanical adjustments necessary at the Wells Hydroelectric Project to balance the grid. This will reduce the maintenance necessary on the turbine units and associated equipment. The 5-megawatt PEM electrolyzer is able to produce 2 metric tons of hydrogen a day at full capacity. The site will also be able to accommodate expansion if the pilot project is successful.
Learn more and see photos at Douglas County PUD: Douglas PUD Commission Cuts Ribbon at Renewable Hydrogen Production Facility on National Hydrogen Day – Douglas County PUD