Japanese technology firm Asahi Kasei has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with De Nora, an Italian multinational specializing in sustainable technologies and electrolyzer cell manufacturing. The MOU focuses on the joint development, evaluation, and commercialization of small-scale pressurized alkaline water electrolyzers for green hydrogen production through water electrolysis.
De Nora is renowned for its advanced electrode catalysts and expertise in electrochemical processes, and it leads in the production of electrodes and electrolyzers. This partnership aims to combine both companies’ extensive experience in chlor-alkali electrolysis to foster close cooperation in the water electrolysis sector.
With growing global demand for green hydrogen as an eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels, the Hydrogen Council projects that the installed capacity of water electrolyzers will reach approximately 300 GW by 2030. This surge is driving demand for compact and cost-effective hydrogen production systems across various industries, including mobility.
To address this need, Asahi Kasei and De Nora will collaborate on technical support, sales, operation, and after-sales service for small-scale containerized electrolyzers ranging from 1 to 7.5 MW. Asahi Kasei aims to expand its portfolio into this segment, leveraging its nearly 50 years of experience in constructing and operating chlor-alkali electrolyzers globally. This experience will help support customers new to electrolysis technology.
The partnership is expected to synergize De Nora’s expertise in electrodes and small-sized pressurized electrolyzers with Asahi Kasei’s customer-focused business model. This collaboration represents a key component of Asahi Kasei’s strategy to become a comprehensive solution provider in electrolysis, encompassing technological development, supply chain management, large-scale production, and ongoing support.
Kenji Takeda, Executive Officer at Asahi Kasei, noted, “Our collaboration aims to make water electrolysis systems more accessible, driving broader adoption and supporting the hydrogen market’s growth. The combined strengths of De Nora’s electrolysis technology and Asahi Kasei’s customer-centric approach will be crucial in advancing this technology.”
De Nora’s CEO, Paolo Dellachà, added, “We are excited to partner with Asahi Kasei to develop small-scale electrolyzers for green hydrogen, marking a significant step towards sustainable energy. This partnership will enhance our ability to deliver hydrogen to various sectors, including mobility and metallurgy, and support decentralized production in ‘Hydrogen Valleys.’ It will also accelerate the production ramp-up at our new Italian Gigafactory, enhancing our electrolyzer manufacturing capabilities.
