Hydrogen between university cooperation and innovative strength in Chemnitz!

Hydrogen between university cooperation and innovative strength in Chemnitz!

On April 2nd and 3rd, 2025, a delegation from the University of Passau, led by President Prof. Dr. Ulrich Bartosch, Chemnitz University of Technology. The aim of this trip was to get an idea of ​​the cutting-edge research and the possibilities for future collaborations. During their stay, the visitors were given insights into various innovative research areas at the university, starting with a tour of the MAIN research center.

Dr. Camilo Zopp, the scientific director of MERGE, presented current research projects to the delegation participants. Prof. Dr. Thomas von Unwerth spoke about the important hydrogen research at Chemnitz University of Technology, in particular about the “Hydrogen and Mobility Innovation Center” (HIC), which is funded nationwide with a total of 84.4 million euros. Eckhardt Wittstock presented guests with innovative virtual reality and augmented reality applications in the VR cave, while Prof. Dr. Arved Hübler explained interesting processes for producing loudspeakers using printing technology.

Cooperation in the field of hydrogen technology

The HIC is a central element of hydrogen research in Germany. The Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport (BMDV) and the Saxon Ministry of Economic Affairs have signed an administrative agreement to establish a national hydrogen center in the Chemnitz Technopark. 72.5 million euros from the federal government and 15 million euros from the Free State of Saxony will go into setting up the HIC, which will be made available until 2028.

The HIC will create a development and testing environment for hydrogen technologies in Europe, which will particularly benefit small and medium-sized companies and automotive suppliers. The plans include, among other things, test and test stands as well as laboratories for industrial customers. The facility should not only develop and certify innovations, but also set new standards and train employees. The HIC also promotes the establishment of startups in the field of hydrogen technologies and contributes to the creation of new jobs in the region.

Research priorities and regional potential

The proximity of Chemnitz University of Technology and the Fraunhofer Institutes IWU and ENAS to the HIC site significantly strengthens the regional innovative strength. On April 2nd, guests received insights into the research and innovation activities at the Smart Rail Connectivity Campus (SRCC), which are dedicated to the development of sustainable mobility solutions.

Prof. Dr. Gerd Strohmeier, the rector of Chemnitz University of Technology, commented positively on the warm hospitality and the fruitful exchange that was promoted by this visit. Ulrich Bartosch was impressed by the development of Chemnitz University of Technology and the diverse opportunities for collaboration, especially in the area of ​​hydrogen research.

Together with the scientific aspects mentioned and the strategic goals of the hydrogen center, the long-term benefits of this cooperation become apparent not only for the institutions involved, but also for the entire region. As the world continues to search for sustainable solutions, the work in Chemnitz will become a showcase project in hydrogen technology and the circular economy, which are becoming increasingly important.

The transition from linear to circular economic systems is seen as important to conserve resources and promote sustainability. The Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft is actively involved in shaping this change through innovations and adapted value networks. By working together, these institutions make a significant contribution to the future viability of the industrial landscape in Germany.