Duke Energy Florida has introduced a groundbreaking clean energy initiative with the launch of its DeBary Hydrogen Production Storage System in Volusia County, marking a major milestone for the U.S. power sector. This innovative facility represents the nation’s first end-to-end demonstration system capable of producing, storing, and combusting up to 100% green hydrogen for electricity generation. The project signals a significant step forward in integrating hydrogen into utility-scale power operations while strengthening grid flexibility and reliability.

At the core of the DeBary system is an advanced process that combines renewable power generation with hydrogen technology. The system is directly connected to Duke Energy Florida’s existing DeBary solar energy site, which supplies clean electricity to two electrolyzer units. These electrolyzers use renewable electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. The oxygen generated during the process is safely released into the atmosphere, while the hydrogen is captured and classified as “green” because it is produced entirely using renewable energy sources.

Once produced, the green hydrogen is transferred into specially reinforced storage containers designed to ensure safe and reliable long-term storage. This stored hydrogen becomes a flexible energy resource that can be dispatched when electricity demand peaks. During such periods, the hydrogen is supplied to an existing combustion turbine at the site. This turbine has been upgraded using advanced solutions from GE Vernova, enabling it to operate on a blend of natural gas and hydrogen or, when required, on 100% hydrogen alone.

The significance of this system lies in the operational flexibility it offers. Traditional renewable energy sources such as solar power are inherently intermittent, as they depend on weather conditions and daylight hours. By pairing solar generation with hydrogen production and storage, Duke Energy Florida can store excess renewable energy and convert it into a dependable, on-demand power source. This capability allows turbines to be started or shut down as needed, regardless of the time of day or prevailing weather conditions.

From a broader perspective, the DeBary hydrogen project enhances the resilience and diversity of Duke Energy Florida’s generation portfolio. Hydrogen-fueled turbines can help balance the grid as more renewable resources are added, ensuring consistent electricity supply while reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This approach not only supports the expansion of renewable energy but also helps manage fuel costs for customers while meeting steadily growing energy demand across the region.

Company leaders highlighted the strategic importance of the project. Melissa Seixas, Duke Energy Florida state president, emphasized that a diverse generation mix is essential for long-term reliability. She noted that the DeBary hydrogen initiative reflects the company’s commitment to forward-looking infrastructure investments that deliver customer value while addressing rising energy needs. Reggie Anderson, vice president of regulated and renewable energy at Duke Energy Florida, added that the system demonstrates how clean energy can be produced and stored safely and reliably, creating lasting benefits for the energy industry, the company, and customers alike.

Overall, the DeBary Hydrogen Production Storage System stands as a landmark demonstration of how green hydrogen can play a critical role in the future of clean, flexible, and reliable power generation in the United States.