The Swiss Federal Office of Energy (SFOE) supports the “H₂ districts” project to explore the use of hydrogen in buildings to manage peak electricity demand during cold winter days. The project is investigating fuel cells to buffer peak loads for the grid, with an initial application at Empa providing data for this concept.

Heating systems in buildings cause about a quarter of Switzerland’s CO₂ emissions. Using electric heat pumps is a key step to reduce these emissions, but their electricity demand rises sharply on cold days. This peak demand needs more electricity production and expanded distribution grids.

Hydrogen in stationary fuel cells in buildings can help. On cold days or when power supply is strained, a fuel cell can produce electricity to run heat pumps and use waste heat to warm the building.

Empa researchers, with the Hälg Group, Osterwalder Group, and H2 Energy AG, are developing this concept. They aim to set up a real plant at Empa in Dübendorf. The project started in October 2023 and will end in September 2025. This collaboration uses expertise in building automation, hydrogen logistics, and building technology to explore grid-friendly operation and CO₂ saving potential.

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