London-based specialty chemicals and sustainable technology company, Johnson Matthey, has entered into a three-year strategic supply agreement with Hystar, a Norway-based company, to support renewable hydrogen production.
The agreement focuses on supplying membrane electrode assemblies for Hystar’s proton exchange membrane electrolysers, which will be utilized in the HyPilot project in Norway. This collaboration builds upon their existing partnership initiated in 2021, which primarily aimed at electrolyser stack development.
As part of the agreement, Hystar will deploy a fully autonomous, containerized PEM electrolyser with a hydrogen production capacity of up to 745 kilograms per day. The project aims to leverage Johnson Matthey’s advanced electrolyser technology, manufacturing capabilities, and circularity offering to contribute to the development of the hydrogen economy.
Mark Wilson, Chief Executive Officer of Johnson Matthey, emphasizes the significance of this strategic agreement with Hystar. He highlights that it serves as an important endorsement of Johnson Matthey’s expertise in electrolyser technology, manufacturing capabilities, supply chain access, and circularity initiatives. Wilson also emphasizes the importance of collaborative partnerships that bring together the complementary capabilities and strengths of different organizations in driving the advancement of the hydrogen economy.
The collaboration between Johnson Matthey and Hystar in the HyPilot project holds several goals and potential impacts. Let’s delve deeper into the technology, impact, and challenges surrounding this strategic agreement.
Technology
The agreement revolves around the supply of membrane electrode assemblies for proton exchange membrane electrolysers. Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis is a technology that uses an electrolyte membrane to separate hydrogen and oxygen gases during the water electrolysis process. By passing an electric current through the water, hydrogen gas is produced at the cathode, while oxygen gas is generated at the anode.
The membrane electrode assemblies supplied by Johnson Matthey play a crucial role in facilitating the electrochemical reactions within the electrolyser, enabling efficient and sustainable hydrogen production. Johnson Matthey’s advanced technology and manufacturing capabilities ensure the delivery of high-quality components for Hystar’s electrolysis systems.
Goals
The primary objective of the HyPilot project in Norway is to develop and demonstrate an autonomous, containerized PEM electrolyser with a significant hydrogen production capacity. By leveraging renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, the project aims to produce green hydrogen—a clean and sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. The partnership between Johnson Matthey and Hystar enables the integration of advanced electrolyser technology into the project, driving the efficiency and scalability of hydrogen production.
