In Ulsan, South Korea, a groundbreaking development has emerged in the form of the world’s first “hydrogen apartment” block. Known as the Yuldong-With-U complex, this residential marvel comprises 437 households entirely powered by hydrogen fuel cells for both electricity and heating.
Operational for just over a month, the innovative system has already proven its capability. In June alone, the apartments generated 840 MWh of power, equivalent to approximately 150 million won (about $108,286) in conventional utility costs.
The Yuldong-With-U apartments derive their energy from the nearby Yuldong Combined Heat and Power Plant, situated a mere 200 meters away. This facility utilizes hydrogen sourced as a byproduct from local industries, delivered via a 10 km pipeline network.
At the heart of this eco-friendly initiative are three container-sized fuel cells installed on the complex’s rooftop. These cells collectively generate 1.31 megawatts of electricity, consuming 51 kilograms of hydrogen per hour. This output not only satisfies the electricity needs of the residents but also produces heat, which is captured and stored in a 40-ton thermal accumulator.
The stored heat, reaching temperatures up to 70°C, is utilized to warm water piped directly into homes, ensuring efficient and sustainable heating solutions. This dual functionality of electricity generation and heat recovery underscores the Yuldong-With-U complex’s role as a beacon of energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Moreover, this pioneering project underscores the potential of hydrogen fuel cells in residential settings. By harnessing this advanced technology, Ulsan not only reduces its environmental footprint but also establishes a cost-effective alternative to traditional energy sources.
The Yuldong-With-U complex in Ulsan sets a new global standard for sustainable urban living, exemplifying the future of energy-efficient housing and reaffirming hydrogen’s pivotal role in shaping environmentally conscious communities worldwide.