Nel Hydrogen US, a subsidiary of Nel ASA, has secured a $5.6 million funding grant from the US Department of Defense (DoD) to accelerate the development of advanced PEM electrolyser stacks.
The collaboration with the Engineer Research and Development Center-Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (ERDC-CERL) aims to enable low-cost hydrogen storage and resiliency applications. This article delves into the goals, technology, potential impact, and challenges surrounding this funding, shedding light on the advancements in electrolyser development and the significance of hydrogen generation for national energy security.
The primary objective of the collaboration between Nel Hydrogen US and ERDC-CERL is to accelerate the development of low-cost electrolyser technology. By reducing both operating and capital costs, the project aims to make hydrogen storage and resiliency applications more accessible. The funding will be utilized to scale up advanced materials and processes, fostering the optimization of PEM electrolyser stacks. The ultimate goal is to facilitate renewable hydrogen generation at scale for industrial applications, thus contributing to the broader adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
The 19-month project encompasses various high-level activities focused on advancing electrolyser development. Key areas of research and development include the optimization of membranes for electrolysis applications, the development of advanced catalysts, the implementation of high-volume manufacturing and recycling techniques, surface coating methods to reduce precious metal usage, and the integration and testing of cell stacks in a full system at ERDC-CERL. These advancements hold the potential to significantly enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of PEM electrolysis, which plays a vital role in hydrogen production.
The collaboration’s impact extends beyond the realms of technology development. By enabling low-cost hydrogen storage and resiliency applications, the project contributes to national energy security. Hydrogen serves as a unique and versatile energy source that can support the resilience of critical infrastructure and promote energy diversification. The advancements in PEM electrolyser technology facilitated by this collaboration will facilitate the widespread adoption of renewable hydrogen, driving the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
The grant received by Nel Hydrogen US from the US Department of Defense for accelerating PEM electrolyser stack development marks a significant milestone in the advancement of low-cost electrolyser technology. The collaboration with ERDC-CERL positions Nel Hydrogen as a key player in the pursuit of renewable hydrogen generation at scale. By reducing capital and operating costs and optimizing PEM electrolysis, the project sets the stage for a more efficient, cost-effective, and accessible hydrogen economy. The successful realization of this collaboration will not only enhance national energy security and resiliency but also drive the transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future.
