About ThunderStack

ThunderStack is a European research project advancing technology for green hydrogen production, coordinated by Tampere University. It aims to improve the durability, reliability and energy efficiency of high-temperature solid oxide electrolysis systems (SOEL).

  • Duration2026–2029
  • ProgrammeHorizon Europe · Clean Hydrogen Partnership
  • CoordinatorTampere University
  • Grant No101250775

Work plan

Project timeline

Eight work packages over 48 months, from conceptual design to testing in relevant conditions.

Research and development Management and impact
  1. WP1Conceptual design and preliminary testingM1–M12: months 1 to 12
  2. WP2Cell unit characterisation and modellingM1–M12: months 1 to 12
  3. WP3Short stack concept and optimisationM13–M30: months 13 to 30
  4. WP4Development of AC:DC operation modes on novel short stacksM13–M30: months 13 to 30
  5. WP5The future of ThunderStack SOEL technologiesM31–M48: months 31 to 48
  6. WP6Testing stacks and BoP components in relevant conditionsM31–M48: months 31 to 48
  7. WP7Project managementM1–M48: months 1 to 48
  8. WP8Impact maximisationM1–M48: months 1 to 48

Work packages

Scope of work

WP1M1–M12

Conceptual design and preliminary testing

Defines the project specifications and evaluates materials on small cell samples. It also optimises cell tape casting and fuel electrode infiltration, and runs the first recycling tests.

Lead: Tampere University (TAU)

WP2M1–M12

Cell unit characterisation and modelling

Tests cell performance and durability through accelerated stress tests. Modelling and material studies explain cell behaviour and define test methods for AC:DC operation.

Lead: Technical University of Denmark (DTU)

WP3M13–M30

Short stack concept and optimisation

Optimises cell processing and fabricates 80 cm² cells for the short stack concept. It also develops recycling and reuse methods for raw materials and explores alternative technologies for AC:DC operation.

Lead: SolydEra (SOL)

WP4M13–M30

AC:DC operation modes on novel short stacks

Develops AC:DC operation strategies for stacks and tests their behaviour in service. It also validates degradation hypotheses on cells and studies the effect of pressure variations.

Lead: DynElectro (DYN)

WP5M31–M48

The future of ThunderStack SOEL technologies

Fabricates cells, stacks and balance of plant (BoP) components and proposes technological improvements. A final study assesses the sustainability and impact of the proposed solutions.

Lead: Tampere University (TAU)

WP6M31–M48

Testing stacks and BoP components in relevant conditions

Adapts the test infrastructure and BoP to run validation campaigns in relevant conditions. Results are reported against key performance indicators and agreed test methods.

Lead: EPFL

WP7M1–M48

Project management

Handles the administration and management of the project. It sets up the management structures and ensures technical coordination across the consortium.

Lead: Tampere University (TAU)

WP8M1–M48

Impact maximisation

Builds a stakeholder network and advisory board and implements the dissemination, exploitation and communication strategy. It also connects the project with standardisation, related projects and commercialisation pathways.

Lead: Tampere University (TAU)