Rolls-Royce is actively exploring and implementing hydrogen as a sustainable energy source across various sectors, including aviation, marine, and power systems.
In particular, Rolls-Royce is actively pursuing sustainable aviation solutions through the development of hydrogen-powered systems and the integration of Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs). Here’s Haush’s overview of their current initiatives and plans:
Hydrogen Initiatives
White hydrogen is generated through several geological processes:
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Aviation:
In collaboration with easyJet, Rolls-Royce successfully conducted ground tests of a modern aero engine powered by hydrogen, utilising green hydrogen produced from wind and tidal energy. Plans include additional rig tests and a full-scale ground test of a Rolls-Royce Pearl 15 jet engine, with the long-term goal of conducting flight tests to validate hydrogen’s viability for civil aviation. SAF blend was used on all easyJet flights operating from Gatwick to Glasgow throughout the COP26 Climate Change Conference.
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Power Systems:
Rolls-Royce is developing hydrogen fuel cell systems, such as the mtu Series 500 and Series 4000 engines, which are currently ready for 25% hydrogen integration. Recently, the company has offered engines and conversion kits capable of operating on 100% hydrogen. These systems are intended for applications like data centres and other critical facilities, providing CO₂-neutral alternatives to traditional diesel generators.
Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAFs)
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Engine Compatibility:
Rolls-Royce has successfully completed compatibility testing of 100% SAF on all its in-production civil aero engine types, confirming that these engines can operate efficiently with SAF without modifications.
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SAFinity Program:
The company has developed the SAFinity program to assist turbine aircraft operators in implementing sustainable practices. This flexible program combines investments in SAF with independently verified sustainability projects, encouraging the adoption of SAF and supporting its production and availability.
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Industry Commitment:
Rolls-Royce has pledged to ensure that all its civil aircraft engines currently in production are compatible with 100% SAF, demonstrating its commitment to reducing aviation’s carbon footprint.
Future Outlook
Rolls-Royce acknowledges that widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered aviation may still be years away, with SAFs playing a more immediate role in decarbonising air travel. The company remains committed to overcoming the technological challenges associated with hydrogen and is actively investing in research and development to make hydrogen and hybrid-electric systems a reality.
In summary, Rolls-Royce is at the forefront of integrating hydrogen and SAF into its products and services, with ongoing projects aimed at harnessing these technologies to drive sustainable solutions across multiple industries.
For a more detailed explanation of Sustainable Aviation Fuels, you can watch this video by Rolls-Royce:
Rolls-Royce is actively advancing the development of hydrogen-powered engines for marine applications, focusing on integrating sustainable energy solutions into maritime propulsion systems.
Hydrogen-Ready Certification
The company has achieved a significant milestone by obtaining H2-readiness certification from TÜV Süd for its current mtu Series 4000 FNER/FV gas engines. This certification confirms that these engines are prepared for future hydrogen use and can be converted accordingly. The first installation of 100% hydrogen-powered mtu Series 4000 engines is planned for early 2025 at two combined heat and power (CHP) plants for the Enerport II lighthouse project in Germany’s Duisburg inland port.
Phoenix Project
In collaboration with a consortium of companies and research institutes, Rolls-Royce has initiated the Phoenix (Performance Hydrogen Engine for Industrial and X) project. Funded by the German government, this initiative aims to develop technologies for a highly efficient hydrogen combustion engine to drive CHP systems. The goal is to achieve the same power density and efficiency as current natural gas CHP units, with outputs up to 2.5 MW. The project is scheduled to run for three years, culminating in a technology concept ready for prototype engine use.
Hydrogen Combustion Engines
Rolls-Royce is also developing hydrogen combustion engines to generate power in stationary applications. These engines are designed to operate on 100% hydrogen, offering a CO₂-neutral alternative to traditional combustion engines. The company is conducting tests to ensure performance, efficiency, and emissions characteristics meet stringent standards.
These initiatives underscore Rolls-Royce’s commitment to integrating hydrogen into its marine engine portfolio, contributing to the decarbonisation of maritime operations and supporting the broader energy transition.
Future Outlook
Rolls-Royce acknowledges that widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered aviation may still be years away, with sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) likely playing a more immediate role in decarbonising air travel. However, the company remains committed to overcoming the technological challenges associated with hydrogen and is actively investing in research and development to make hydrogen and hybrid-electric systems a reality.
In summary, Rolls-Royce is at the forefront of integrating hydrogen into its products and services, with ongoing projects aimed at harnessing hydrogen’s potential to drive sustainable solutions across multiple industries.
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