Introduction
Valais is establishing itself as a key player in the energy transition with the inauguration of the Power-to-Gas demonstration facility on the Energypolis campus in Sion. This pioneering project, the result of a collaboration between EPFL, HES-SO Valais-Wallis, and industrial partners, paves the way for concrete solutions to harness renewable energy and strengthen Switzerland’s energy security.
A demonstration project supporting the energy transition
The Power-to-Gas demonstrator aims to test innovative technologies designed to address the challenges of the energy transition, including CO₂ capture and the seasonal storage of electricity in the form of gas. This facility converts excess electricity generated in the summer into hydrogen or methane, which can be stored long-term or injected into the gas grid. This system provides a concrete solution to seasonal fluctuations in energy production and consumption, thereby stabilizing the grid and securing the supply, particularly during the winter.
Storing electricity in the form of gas
Power-to-Gas technology converts surplus renewable electricity into hydrogen or methane through electrolysis and methanation, utilizing CO₂ capture. This process, developed by teams at EPFL and HES-SO Valais, is a key component of a circular and carbon-neutral energy economy.
CO₂ Capture and Utilization
La neutralité carbone passe par la capture du CO₂ à la source. Le démonstrateur exploite des membranes en graphène et des structures métallo-organiques (MOFs) pour filtrer et adsorber efficacement le CO₂, qui est ensuite valorisé dans le processus de méthanation ou stocké sous forme liquide. Ces innovations issues des laboratoires du campus de Sion illustrent la capacité de la recherche suisse à proposer des solutions concrètes pour la décarbonation.
A catalyst for the local economy and training
Supported by the Valais Energy Demonstrators Fund (5 million francs), the project promotes the development of full-scale facilities and provides hands-on training for the engineers of tomorrow. It is fully aligned with the Swiss Confederation’s Energy Strategy 2050 and demonstrates the strength of the partnership between academic institutions and local industry.
Conclusion
The Power-to-Gas demonstrator positions Valais as a hub of innovation in energy transition and the circular economy. It validates the effectiveness of combining seasonal storage, CO₂ capture, and cross-sector collaboration to accelerate decarbonization. For WasteOlas, this type of initiative underscores the importance of developing local CO₂ utilization solutions and integrating technological advancements into a comprehensive resource management strategy. The future looks promising for stakeholders capable of combining innovation, local roots, and a sustainable vision.
Original source : A demonstration project puts Valais at the heart of the energy transition – Author : Mediacom, EPFL
Licence : CC BY-SA 4.0 – EPFL