Kaleigh Harrison
French renewable hydrogen producer Lhyfe has moved industrial decarbonization from theory to practice. In a first-of-its-kind initiative, the company replaced natural gas entirely with green hydrogen in high-temperature manufacturing processes at ceramic plants in Spain’s Valencia region.
Over a three-week trial, nearly three tonnes of hydrogen were used to fuel industrial burners, pushing temperatures up to 1550°C. Only minor burner modifications were needed, proving that full hydrogen combustion is technically and operationally feasible in traditional gas systems.
The hydrogen, produced at Lhyfe’s Bessières facility in France (with a daily capacity of up to two tonnes), was transported using one of Europe’s largest hydrogen container fleets. This logistics capability underscores Lhyfe’s readiness to supply large-scale industrial operations across Europe.
A core feature enabling this switch is Lhyfe’s proprietary mixing kit. This system allows manufacturers to gradually integrate hydrogen — from low blends up to 100% — without overhauling entire infrastructure. The approach provides a practical route for energy-intensive sectors to cut emissions while staying competitive, addressing a critical problem since these industries represent about 20% of global CO₂ emissions.
Beyond Ceramics: Opportunities Across Heavy Industries
While ceramics led the first real-world trial, the potential applications are much broader. Industries like cement, steel, glass, and non-ferrous metals manufacturing all depend on high-temperature combustion, and they face increasing regulatory and financial pressure to reduce their carbon footprints.
Lhyfe’s mixing technology could be a game changer for these sectors, enabling a gradual shift away from fossil fuels without sacrificing the extreme heat their processes require.
The momentum is especially strong in Spain, where supportive government policies and abundant renewable electricity make it an attractive hub for green hydrogen. Lhyfe’s Spanish subsidiary, launched in 2022, is expanding its local footprint with a major project in Vallmoll, Tarragona. Scheduled for 2027, the new site will feature 15 MW of installed capacity and produce up to 5 tonnes of hydrogen daily, backed by €14 million in funding through Spain’s H2 Pioneros program.
The focus isn’t limited to ceramics. The facility aims to serve the chemicals sector and mobility applications as well. For manufacturers, hydrogen offers a route to comply with stricter emissions rules and rising carbon costs, while keeping production consistent.
