Power-to-X: The Backbone of a Carbon-Neutral Future
Author: Ong Min Yuen, Business Development at ASEAN, Phoenix Contact
Ms. Ong Min Yuen, on the right, at the Vietnam Japan Hydrogen Workshop 2024 in HCMC, Sept 2024
1. Introduction
The global energy transition hinges on our ability to store and distribute renewable energy efficiently. Power-to-X (PtX) technologies allow surplus renewable electricity to be converted into hydrogen, methane, or synthetic fuels, enabling flexible use across sectors.
Phoenix Contact has positioned itself as a technology leader, offering a comprehensive and open automation ecosystem – PLCnext Technology – to electrify, digitalize, and automate the entire PtX value chain.
2. Key Solutions
(a) End-to-End PtX Concepts
Holistic solutions for electrification, networking, and automation of electrolysis plants, hydrogen pipelines, fueling stations, and fuel cell applications.
(b) Electrolyzer Control & Monitoring
Centralized control of hydrogen production, tank levels, ventilation, water pretreatment, and emergency shutdown. PLCnext collects synchronized sensor data, enabling predictive maintenance and higher efficiency.
(c) Modular Power Supply for Electrolysis
CHARX power AC/DC converters with up to 97% efficiency, scalable design, and fault-tolerant modularity ensure maximum uptime.
(d) Combining Modular Electrolyzers
Scalable skid-based systems are easily orchestrated via open protocols (OPC UA, PROFINET, Modbus TCP) using PLCnext control.
(e) Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Station Automation
Real-time monitoring of temperature, pressure, and electrical parameters. Modular architecture allows for easy expansion of hydrogen refueling stations.
(f) Pipeline Leakage Monitoring & CCUS/DAC Automation
Time-synchronized leakage detection solutions using secure communications (VPN, 4G/5G, SHDSL, Radioline). AI-powered diagnostics optimize operation of carbon capture and direct air capture facilities.
3. Real-World Applications
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Bremerhaven, Germany – HyRunner system ensures safe hydrogen logistics with cloud connectivity.
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Endua, Australia – modular hydrogen energy storage systems with remote monitoring over MQTT.
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Enapter AG, Germany-Italy – fully automated AEM Multicore 450 electrolyzer container with intrinsic safety for Zone 0 environments.
4. Smart Operations & Security
Phoenix Contact emphasizes:
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Redundancy at all levels (power, network, controllers).
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Cybersecurity with IEC 62443 compliance and NIS 2 readiness.
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Functional Safety & Explosion Protection with PROFIsafe compatibility.
5. Service & Support
From early-stage consulting and control cabinet design to SIL assessment, documentation, and staff training, Phoenix Contact ensures reliable project delivery and legal compliance worldwide.
6. Conclusion
Power-to-X is a cornerstone technology for achieving the All Electric Society vision. Phoenix Contact provides scalable, secure, and intelligent solutions to accelerate decarbonization for industries and cities worldwide.
