State of Bavaria Funds Electrolyzer Project

Stadtwerke Ulm/Neu-Ulm officially received a funding certificate worth 5 million euros from the Bavarian State Ministry of Economic Affairs, Regional Development and Energy on April 28, 2025. It was presented in person by Minister of State Hubert Aiwanger (MdL). With this funding, SWU is pressing ahead with the construction of an electrolyzer for hydrogen production at the Steinhäule natural gas transfer station. This would be the first plant of its kind for SWU.

Green hydrogen is to be produced at the planned site near the Steinhäule sewage treatment plant using surplus electricity generated from renewable sources. This can then be used flexibly for industrial applications, in the transport sector or, in the future, for feeding into the natural gas grid.

“With the new electrolysers, we are laying the foundations for a strong domestic hydrogen economy,” emphasized Hubert Aiwanger at the presentation of the funding certificates. “SWU impressively demonstrates how important progress can be made with innovative strength and entrepreneurial drive. SWU plans to use hydrogen in the local industrial and mobility sector. The company is thus making a tangible contribution to the decarbonization of our economy. I would like to thank those responsible for the project for their commitment.”

SWU's investment amounts to around 17 million euros, with funding from the Free State of Bavaria covering 5 million euros. The aim is to put the plant into operation by the end of 2027. However, the required sales volumes of the hydrogen produced must first be allocated.

The construction of the electrolyser is part of SWU's comprehensive sustainability strategy, which focuses on renewable energies, innovation and regional value creation.