RVK Expands Green Hydrogen Production: Electrolyzer and Refueling Station in Mechernich

Regional transport association Cologne (RVK) is expanding into its own green hydrogen production. With a ceremonial groundbreaking in Mechernich, the company has launched two new hydrogen production facilities – a further facility is being built in parallel at the Bergisch Gladbach site. The facilities are scheduled to be operational by the end of 2026.

At the Mechernich site, a hydrogen refueling station and an electrolyzer are being built on the grounds of the future training and further education center for climate-neutral and digital mobility (AWM). The electrolyzer will produce 36 kilograms of hydrogen per hour – sufficient for slightly more than two hydrogen bus refueling cycles. The required electricity comes entirely from renewable energy sources.

The refueling station will primarily supply RVK's own hydrogen bus fleet, but will also be open to the public. In addition to two refueling pumps for buses, another pump will enable refueling of cars and trucks. The waste heat generated during hydrogen production will also be utilized to provide heat to the AWM buildings.

The Federal Ministry has approved funding of approximately 15.1 million euros for the construction of the hydrogen refueling station and electrolyzer.

"With the in-house production of green hydrogen, RVK ensures the supply of its hydrogen bus fleet. This makes us independent of market developments. Since the refueling station is freely accessible, we are bringing this emission-free drive technology beyond our company boundaries to the region," explained RVK Managing Director Dr. Marcel Frank.

The AWM itself is still in the planning phase. In addition to an academy for sustainable mobility, the facility will include a driving training area and a competence center. Construction is scheduled to begin in mid-2027.