Paving the way for a full-scale H2-Infrastructure in Northern Italy
CPL Concordia, Milano Serravalle and Maximator Hydrogen have entered a pioneering partnership that promises a groundbreaking development in the field of hydrogen infrastructure in Northern Italy.
As general contractor, CPL Concordia will have overall responsibility for the implementation of the project, while Milano Serravalle – operator of the main highways around Milan – will also act as operator of the facilities. As part of this cooperation, five state-of-the-art hydrogen filling-stations are to be built along the highways around Milan in the coming months. The first facility in Carugate Est was put into operation today. This network of hydrogen refueling stations represents a decisive step towards promoting emission-free mobility in the industrially strong region and strengthen the industrial location of northern Italy.
The highways around Milan are vital arteries for the transportation of people and goods in Northern Italy and a link for the country’s north-south connection. The partnership-based collaboration on this project brings together valuable expertise for a sustainable mobility solution in this important transportation hub, combining the infrastructure expertise of CPL Concordia and Milano Serravalle with the technical know-how of Germany-based Maximator Hydrogen.
CPL Concordia is the general contractor, with great expertise in the field of energy, environment and green hydrogen; Milano Serravalle, as operator of the hydrogen filling stations, contributes its know-how from the management of the 187 km long highway network in and around Milan and the Lombardy region. Other project participants include Maximator Italy, Connecto Srl and hyCharge Srl as important business partners of Maximator Hydrogen on the Italian market, who have made a significant contribution to the success of the project. René Himmelstein, CSO Maximator Hydrogen, states: "Our local partners on-site play a key role in complex infrastructure projects like this one. Their knowledge of the region, combined with their commitment to quality and reliability ensures that we deliver high-performance systems for both operators and end-customers. This collaboration strengthens our ability to execute such large-scale initiatives while also fostering long-lasting relationships built on trust, innovation and shared goals. Together, we are laying the foundation for a sustainable, hydrogen-powered future in Northern Italy."
With the five stations around Milan, CPL Concordia is sending a clear signal towards promoting low-emission mobility. "This project marks an important milestone on our way to achieving our climate goals and promoting sustainable economic development." "Establishing a comprehensive hydrogen infrastructure sets the stage for forward-looking mobility in Northern Italy and underscores the critical role of technological advancement in driving lasting, positive change in Italy’s transport future", adds Michele Gervasio, Technical Director of CPL Concordia.
H2-Compressor Technology from Germany
Hydrogen must be compressed for refueling in order to transfer a sufficient amount into the vehicle tank and ensure efficient usage. The MAX Compression System – the centrepiece of every hydrogen refueling station by Maximator Hydrogen – plays a crucial role in this process. It is a hydraulically driven compressor-system that compresses hydrogen to pressures of up to 900 bar. A key component of this system is the patented Automatic Seal Exchange (ASX): an innovative technology that automates the replacement of seals, which are subject to strong wear due to the extremely high pressures involved. This significantly reduces service and maintenance requirements, thereby increasing the efficiency and availability of the refueling stations. "The establishment of these hydrogen refueling stations marks a major milestone in advancing the hydrogen economy in Northern Italy. We are proud to support this forward-looking initiative with our reliable technology", says René Himmelstein.
Today, the first of five refueling stations was officially commissioned in Carugate Est. In the coming months, additional stations will follow in Carugate Ovest, Rho and two locations in Tortona - Ovest and Est. The total investment for these infrastructure projects amounts to approximately 50 million euros. The project is funded by Ministerio delle Infrastrutture e della Mobilità Sostenibili. The project partners - CPL Concordia, Milano Serravalle and Maximator Hydrogen - are united in their commitment to shaping the future of sustainable mobility in Northern Italy and contributing to the global energy transition.
