CO2InnO

Laboratory for a CO2-neutral innovation region: Developing energy and mobility solutions (10/2022–09/2025)

Project Objective:

The Upper Rhine region, particularly the area around the former Fessenheim nuclear power plant, aims to become a pilot region for an innovative, greenhouse gas-free economy, based on a sustainable energy and transport concept, while also promoting economic value creation and job creation.

The overall goal and expected outcome of the CO2InnO project is to establish a real-world laboratory that supports and advances the transformation of the Upper Rhine region towards climate neutrality by demonstrating practical energy solutions. Hydrogen-based combined heat and power (CHP) plants are at the heart of the project. The resulting decentralised energy production is also linked to a network of charging stations to promote e-mobility.

Initially, the current situation will be assessed using two model municipalities, one on the French side and one on the German side. A hydrogen-based CHP unit will then be developed as a demonstrator. Studies and simulations will determine both the extent to which the former Fessenheim nuclear plant can be used to produce regional green hydrogen (notably to supply the CHP units) and whether the electricity generated by the CHP units can also be used to establish local charging stations to support e-mobility.

Involvement of TRION-climate e.V.:

As a co-funding partner, with a total dedicated budget of €210,000 (60% funded by the ERDF), TRION-climate is engaged in the project through the following activities:

Communication and collaboration with private-sector stakeholders:

  • ENERGIE vis-à-vis feature on hydrogen mobility
  • ENERGIE vis-à-vis feature on funding tools
  • ENERGIE vis-à-vis feature summarising the project’s results
  • Co-organisation of the 1st conference on 5 December 2023 in Freiburg im Breisgau
  • Co-organisation of the 2nd conference on 2 July 2024 in Colmar
  • Co-organisation of the 3rd conference on 25 September 2025 in Strasbourg
  • Visit to the R-HYFIE experimental platform
  • Visit of the Fraunhofer ISE

Maps and inventories:

  • Interactive map of hydrogen installations and projects
  • Interactive map of sustainable mobility for local authorities

Summary of project results (in German)

Detailed project results (in German)

The project is structured into seven work packages (WPs) designed to analyse the impacts and applications of innovative technologies in the Upper Rhine region:

WP1
WP1 covers the organisation and coordination of all project activities. Its aim is to ensure effective knowledge transfer and communication between partners and with external stakeholders. Engaging future users in technology development helps tailor solutions to their needs and promotes adoption. Close interaction between work packages is essential for the project’s success. Results (in German)

WP2
WP2 develops and tests an innovative hydrogen-based combined heat and power (CHP) system in the laboratory, or, during a transitional phase, a gas–hydrogen mix. Led by HKA, this research uses a digital model to demonstrate the feasibility of large-scale deployment of such a system in the Upper Rhine region.Results (in German)

WP3
WP3, led by the University of Freiburg, focuses on sustainable mobility. It examines how e-mobility can complement the CHP installation. By analysing the existing infrastructure, this work package aims to develop recommendations for zero-emission mobility solutions. Results (in German)

WP4
WP4, coordinated by the Hochschule Kehl, examines the legal and administrative aspects of new energy technologies. Due to regulatory differences across the three countries in the region, a detailed comparison of legal frameworks is necessary. Special focus is placed on the Franco-German comparison regarding the integration of CHP, hydrogen, and electric mobility.Results (in German)

WP5
WP5, led by KIT-DFIU, studies the acceptance of new technologies. It identifies stakeholder needs and expectations, highlighting the importance of public and administrative support for the successful implementation of technological innovations. Results (in German)

WP6
WP6, conducted by UHA, addresses the cybersecurity of energy systems. Reliability and network protection are key issues for energy security. Decentralised systems, which strengthen the connection between producers and users, are increasingly important in this context. Results (in German)

WP7
WP7 explores the potential reuse of materials from decommissioned nuclear power plants, including Fessenheim. It examines the conditions under which these materials can be repurposed, as well as their potential contribution to a carbon-neutral energy system within a circular economy framework. Results (in German)

Co-Funding Partners

Associated Partners