The transmission system operator Open Grid Europe GmbH (OGE) has commissioned a new training facility for hydrogen in Werne. With the establishment of this training center, which is unique in Europe, OGE, together with partners such as the German Technical and Scientific Association for Gas and Water (DVGW) and the Gas and Heat Institute Essen (GWI), is setting an important milestone for the energy transition.
The facility enables practical training in the safe handling of hydrogen and realistic testing of operational processes.
„The transformation of the energy market will only succeed if we shape it together. With expertise, responsibility, and the courage to break new ground“, said Dr. Thomas Hüwener, spokesman for the management board at OGE, in his opening address. „The H2 training track is an example of this and a building block for the development of the hydrogen sector at OGE and in our country. It makes Werne a center of excellence for the safe and efficient handling of hydrogen in the transmission network.“
Detlef Brüggemeyer, Technical Director at OGE: „We have installed all the key components for hydrogen transport here, enabling us to practice workflows under real-life conditions. The training courses have been designed in several modules with a high practical component.“
In addition to employees from the OGE station in Werne, the opening event was attended by partner organizations and political representatives, including from the North Rhine-Westphalian Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection, and Energy (MWIKE).
Training modules, certification, and prospects
The first training module focuses on assembly, maintenance, and inspection in order to simulate the safe shutdown and restart of pipeline sections and plant components. Another module is dedicated to the safe operation of hydrogen pipelines and plants. All modules are certified by the DVGW and thus meet the highest safety requirements.
OGE has invested around €10 million in setting up the training facility. After the official opening, guests were given an exclusive tour of the facility. The training courses will also be open to external companies from autumn onwards, and the first registrations have already been received.
