Information about Hydrogen Storage:
Salt caverns are artificial cavities which are created in geological salt deposits. Future caverns are generally located at a depth of 500 to 1,500 metres. They are three times higher than the Arc de Triomphe. To create such a cavern, it is first necessary to drill into the salt. The second stage consists in injecting water into the salt to dissolve it. The resulting brine (water mixed with salt) is extracted and leaves room for a large, tight cavern where hydrogen can be stored under pressure.
Why Hydrogen Storage?
Indispensable chain link
Underground hydrogen storage will enable us to support the development of the renewable hydrogen sector by ensuring security of renewable hydrogen supply for all clients and new clients.
Flexibility
Salt cavern offer flexibility regarding their injection and withdrawal cycles to respond to the needs of the hydrogen market. Depending on their depth, salt caverns may be operated at pressures up to 200 bars and allowing for large-volume hydrogen storage (from 9 to 6,000 tons).
Safety
Due to their tightness, salt caverns allow for safe storage of large quantities of hydrogen under pressure. The first hydrogen storage cavern, which was built in the United Kingdom in 1972, is still in service.