CIMC Raffles launches offshore wind-to-hydrogen platform

Features 1,000 Nm³/h-class PEM electrolyzers and three hydrogen storage systems.

China has launched a semi-submersible wind power hydrogen production platform, “Shenhai Hydrogen Energy No. 1,” in Jiangmen, Guangdong, ahead of its deployment in the South China Sea.

The platform is undergoing onshore system commissioning and is designed for the harsh sea conditions and shallow waters off Hainan. It is China’s first project to receive classification from the China Classification Society (CCS) and statutory maritime inspection.

The platform integrates offshore wind power with hydrogen production. It features a mooring system designed to withstand sea conditions with a 50-year return period, dual grid-connected and off-grid power supply, and motion suppression technology to support uninterrupted proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer operation.

Its equipment includes PEM electrolyzers in the 1,000 Nm³/h class, three hydrogen storage systems for marine adaptability testing, and remote monitoring for unattended operation and maintenance.

The project expands CIMC Raffles’ offshore energy island product line from nearshore to far-sea applications, building on its Yantai Offshore Energy Island Hydrogen-Ammonia-Methanol Integration Pilot Project.

It also aims to develop technical and operational experience in far-offshore wind power utilisation and green shipping fuel supply.

The platform is intended to help address challenges in using offshore wind power and support the development of China’s marine new energy industry.