AIT SmartEST H2LAB

The AIT SmartEST H2LAB at the AIT Campus in Seibersdorf sets new benchmarks in the research and development of hydrogen and hybrid power plant technologies. This state-of-the-art facility is unique in Austria and provides companies and research institutions with an unparalleled platform for innovations in renewable hydrogen and hybrid power plant technologies.

The AIT SmartEST cluster forms a network of laboratories that goes beyond the international state of the art. Planned commissioning is in Q4 2026 / Q1 2027.

• Large Test Areas: Accommodates containers up to 40 feet in size with an electrical power capacity of up to 2 MW each (total capacity of up to 5 MW).
• Small Test Areas: Supports an electrical power capacity of up to 500 kW.
• H₂ Demonstrator "PH₂ÖNIX" (Figure 2): Includes AEM and PEM electrolyzers, an H₂ storage tank, and a fuel cell for the complete energy conversion chain from power to hydrogen and back to power (P > H₂ > P).
• ASGC (AIT Smart Grid Converter): Coupled with a battery energy storage system for buffering electrical energy.

The range of services includes testing, field trials, long-term monitoring, and quality assurance of components and systems, including:

• Engineering/Optimization Services: Long-term and functional tests with defined performance and/or load profiles for development and research purposes.
• System Acceptance Services: Functional and procurement tests or extended system acceptance tests during procurement processes, as well as factory or field acceptance testing.
• Long-term Test Services and Quality Assessment: Reliability and performance analyses with defined performance and/or load profiles.
• Training Services: Personnel training or the organization of seminars and workshops.