Greenlyte Carbon Technologies, a start-up based in the German city of Essen, is pursuing an ambitious mission – capturing atmospheric CO₂ and converting it into synthetic fuels such as e-methanol, e-diesel and SNG, using sun, wind and water power to do so. The electrical infrastructure inside its containers is composed of Rittal technology such as RiLineX, Blue e+ and VX25. Working in collaboration with switchgear manufacturer Peter Pohl, Greenlyte has recently inaugurated a pilot plant in Duisburg – the world’s first modular system that demonstrates the complete process from CO₂ absorption through to methanation.

MODULARITY IS KEY

“We specifically wanted to use a power distribution system that offers us maximum flexibility,” explains Andre Paravidino, who is in charge of electrical engineering and automation at Greenlyte. “RiLineX enables us to use components from a whole range of manufacturers, which is a real bonus in times of supply chain instability.” Another benefit of the platform he appreciates is being able to make changes quickly: “Our process engineers are constantly coming up with new ideas – and with RiLineX, we can extend or reconfigure things whenever we like.”

Jan Haase, Lead Supply Chain, adds: “This plant is our technology demonstrator. The next step is bigger plants, so we need partners who can work with us to scale things up. The system technology needs to operate reliably in the future, too.”

QUALITY AND SPEED

The switchgear is manufactured by experienced specialist Peter Pohl in the nearby town of Mettmann. It is the first time Hans-Peter Pohl, Head of Business Development, has worked with a start-up, and the project has been a major success. “The factory acceptance test didn’t reveal a single problem,” he says with delight. Close coordination with Greenlyte and Rittal made this possible. “The Rittal consultant presented RiLineX to us, brought along sample parts and explained everything precisely – just how it should be! You only really get to know a new system when you test it in a project.”

Pohl particularly appreciates the everyday benefits of the platform: “RiLineX is fully insulated, which saves us a lot of work in our safety appraisal. What’s more, the modular design means we can work really efficiently, too.”

EVERY DETAIL THOUGHT THROUGH

Alongside seven other enclosures for control and distribution purposes, one enclosure in the container has been specially reserved for RiLineX. The tasks performed by the plants range from distributing energy to controlling numerous assemblies, which are cooled by three highly energy-efficient Blue e+ cooling units, supplemented by fans, heaters and lights – also supplied by Rittal.

The Greenlyte planners also benefit from digital tools. “We use the Rittal RiPower configurator for busbars and RiPanel for selecting the enclosure. We therefore know exactly what we need – and that nothing will be missing when we get to the assembly stage,” says Paravidino.

ENGINEERING MADE IN GERMANY

In Haase’s view, the fact it was possible to complete such an ambitious high-tech project in Germany within a mere nine months – six for planning and three for implementation – sends out a clear signal. “It shows we can do this here – quickly, innovatively and to a high standard of quality.” Needless to say, direct communication with the partners also plays a part in this. “We’ve known Rittal for decades. If things get a bit tight, we know we can depend on rapid solutions. That reliability is crucial,” emphasises Pohl.

THE ENERGY TRANSITION NEEDS PARTNERSHIPS

The way ahead for Greenlyte is clear. Following on from the SNG project in Duisburg, plants are to be built for the production of e-methanol in collaboration with Evonik and for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) at Düsseldorf Airport, with an agreement in place for Eurowings to purchase the fuel. “Scalability and system stability are key to these projects,” says Haase. “That’s why it’s so important we work with partners who, just like us, are constantly moving forward.”

Paravidino sums it up neatly: “With this project, we have shown that it’s possible to work quickly, without compromising on quality. That’s exactly the spirit we need for the transformation.”

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  HANS-PETER POHL
  from switchgerar manufacturer Peter Pohl Elektrotechnik

  “RITTAL CARES AND REALLY ENGAGES WITH US – AND THAT CREATES TRUST!”

  Mr. Pohl, for over three decades, you have been successfully assembling and fitting out enclosures for the electronics industry. What is working with Rittal like?

  For us, it’s crucial that we can speak to somebody who really understands the practicalities involved. Our Rittal consultant is a perfect example. He not only brings new systems such as RiLineX along, but also explains them, supplies sample parts and really engages with us. That benefits both us and our customers. Put simply, it creates trust.

  What was it about the very new RiLineX power distribution system that appealed to you?

  One aspect was safety. The system is fully insulated, which saves us a lot of discussions about hazardous areas in the enclosure. Another aspect is the genuine flexibility – you can change or add components quickly. That offers real added value for our customers and makes our work much easier.

  How important is the ability to communicate directly with the manufacturer?

  Extremely important! Of course, we’ve also worked with other enclosure manufacturers before, but they’re often less involved in the project. With Rittal, it’s different. If there’s any kind of issue, we know Rittal will take care of it – and that’s what makes the company such a vital partner for us.

  What are your personal takeaways from the successful project with Greenlyte Carbon Technologies?

  First and foremost, it was really enjoyable! That was our first project with a start-up – and it was great. When you get young people with fresh ideas who want to make a difference, their enthusiasm is catching! After over 30 years in the business, it does us good to strike out in new directions with people like that – and it’s exciting to be closely involved when innovative technologies prove themselves in practice.