Building expertise for the transition to hydrogen

Based on the latest insights from applied research, the Fraunhofer institutes and Fraunhofer Academy have developed part-time training courses for a wide range of professionals.
 

The decarbonization of industry is one of the most significant industrial transformations ever, and it will exacerbate the existing need for specialists and managers. In addition to research, development and innovation, the qualification of skilled workers is one of the key factors for the success of the transformation. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft's professional education program thus makes a significant contribution through the transfer of applied knowledge into industry. Open questions and current topics of research include: Where is my company situated in the hydrogen value chain? How strongly will I be affected by the transformation? What skills do my employees need to put my company on the path toward a sustainable future? By 2030, it is predicted that hydrogen-related industries will need around 70,000 additional specialists and managers. They need the knowledge, skills and expertise to master the complex challenges involved. Here, Fraunhofer’s training program can provide support. The field of hydrogen links different sectors and thus also a broad spectrum of occupational fields and profiles. Stakeholders in industry, authorities, funding institutions and public bodies will increasingly have to make decisions about hydrogen projects in the future. This requires hydrogen expertise, which must be made available in customized formats, for example also for consulting firms, banks and insurance companies. The Fraunhofer Academy offers orientation and strategic stocktaking in various learning formats such as workshops, training courses and more comprehensive further education programs involving knowledge transfer from one or multiple institutes in the hydrogen field. The courses for specialists and managers from sectors contributing to the transformation comprise both basic and highly specialized knowledge on the generation and use of green electricity, and also cover issues such as production safety, process optimization and mobility. Register today and help to shape the future!
 

Fit4H2: Training on the production of hydrogen systems (IWU, ENAS)

 Hydrogen technologies play a key role in achieving global climate targets. The key elements are systems for converting renewable energies into hydrogen (electrolyzers) or reconverting hydrogen into electricity (fuel cells). Such systems are currently only produced in small quantities. However, to consistently reduce CO2 emissions and build a global hydrogen-based economy and society, their availability must improve considerably, and their cost be significantly reduced. This requires industrial mass production, which in turn is inconceivable without value creation networks and the corresponding production technologies. In the Fit4H2 training workshop, the essential components of electrolyzers and fuel cells are presented, together with substantial knowledge about their production technologies. In addition, the economic potential of production is analyzed. The aim is to provide a market overview and concrete starting points for your company's entry into the value chain for hydrogen systems production.
 

Hydrogen production – green electricity makes green hydrogen (IWES, IKTS, IST, IMW, IMWS, CSP)

To ensure a sustainable energy supply and production processes in your company, it is essential to switch from fossil fuels to climate-neutral alternatives in the medium term. This is where the training program »Practical knowledge for hydrogen projects« comes in, aimed at project planners, engineers and industry specialists who, as decision-makers, are shaping the transformation of their company. You will learn about the technological production of green hydrogen with a focus on application. We will show you how hydrogen can serve as an energy carrier and can be used as a chemical building block in industrial processes. You will learn how to solve challenges, such as factory transformation, through real-life case studies and field trips. Using practical examples, we will show you how to significantly reduce your company's CO2 emissions. Our experts will give you an overview of the legal, economic and safety-related framework conditions along the hydrogen value chain. This information will help you to decide where hydrogen can be used in your production process, in order to decarbonize your company more quickly. The training program consists of five learning units which can be selected individually. After passing the certification test, you will receive a personal certificate from Fraunhofer in accordance with ISO 17024.
 

»Energy transition in practice« – specialist knowledge for your transition to hydrogen (IST)

 The energy transition is a very dynamic process that requires the acquisition of new skills and technologies. The »Practical energy transition« training course teaches both the individual building blocks and the interrelationships within the entire hydrogen economy value chain. Planners, management representatives, engineers, employees of municipal utility companies, foremen and -women and experts, as well as consultants from politics, public authorities and banks will learn how green hydrogen can be produced, transported and used in practice. We share cutting-edge knowledge from research and, with the help of our partner companies, show you how hydrogen is already being used in industry. You will have the opportunity to discuss the energy cycle and factory transformation with researchers and end-users. The training program is part-time and can be tailored precisely to your needs. Choose the basic course or a further training option to achieve the personal certificate »Hydrogen expert with TÜV Rheinland-certified qualification«.
 

Hydrogen applications in mobility – how can hydrogen contribute to future mobility?

 Future mobility is climate-neutral and sustainable. Fraunhofer IFAM's advanced training program »Hydrogen applications in mobility« explains the role that hydrogen can play. The part-time training program in a blended learning format comprises five learning units. In addition to the basics of hydrogen technology, it also covers the safety of hydrogen- powered vehicles. Practical information on fuel cells, storage and infrastructure, and on hydrogen in the energy transition, round off the program. Experts from Fraunhofer IFAM teach the majority of the learning content online using a learning platform. This allows participants to work on the content throughout the course without time pressure, when, where and as often as they wish. Face-to-face sessions are held at Fraunhofer IFAM in Bremen for selected learning content. You will gain practical insights into potential applications and the latest research findings. Upon successful completion, participants receive the Fraunhofer personal certificate »Professional in Hydrogen Applications in Mobility«.
 

 Alkaline electrolysis technology hands-on - what is the current state of the art?

The development of alkaline electrolysis technology has progressed impressively in recent years, with continuous pursuit of new process engineering approaches and the development of innovative materials. The workshop »Alkaline Electrolysis Technology Hands-On« presents the state of the art in alkaline electrolyzers (AEL) and anion exchange membrane electrolyzers (AEMEL), offering insights into the latest developments (limited to 8 participants). Participants will gain an overview of stack design and the components used (electrodes [PTL and catalyst coating], seals, separators, bipolar plates, etc.). Topics also include system cost considerations and the technology roadmap. The 1.5-day workshop concludes with a practical explanation of the electrolysis system at an industrial AEL facility. Upon request, the team also offers hands-on assembly of an electrolysis cell for integration into a testing infrastructure. At Fraunhofer IFAM, participants can literally »get hands-on« with the technology. In addition to customized workshops for individual companies, Fraunhofer IFAM organizes an annual industrial workshop focusing on alkaline systems: »Industrial Workshop on Advanced Alkaline Electrolysis«. In 2024, the seventh workshop will take place, currently accommodating up to 100 participants. External speakers from the industry (electrolyzer manufacturers and suppliers) provide insights into the state of the art, complemented by presentations from research institutes on the