SK Ecoplant and Hyundai Engineering have partnered with the US Ultra-Small Modular Nuclear Power Plant (MMR) in cooperation with USNC to conduct research and development for carbon-free hydrogen production. The companies recently announced their partnership to build an “H2 Micro Hub” at SK Ecoplant’s headquarters in Sutong-dong, Jongno-gu, as part of their joint research and development efforts.
The H2 Micro Hub will use solid oxide water electrolyzers (SOEC) to produce hydrogen by applying the high-temperature water electrolysis process. SOEC is a carbon-free hydrogen production method that decomposes water with electricity made using nuclear energy to extract hydrogen. The hydrogen micro hub will be linked to MMR, and the companies will conduct joint research and development on MMR-SOEC-linked integrated plants for the next five years.
Bloom Energy’s SOEC will be used to construct a nuclear power-based water electrolysis hydrogen production system, and Hyundai Engineering will oversee BOP (Balance of Plant) and EPC (Design, Procurement, Construction) related to MMR. USNC will design, manufacture, and supply MMR.
The partnership aims to establish a cost-competitive hydrogen production system and promote continuous R&D and demonstration for future hydrogen production and supply projects. The use of MMR and SOEC technology will result in efficient, carbon-free hydrogen production, which will contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.
Potential Impact of Carbon-Free Hydrogen Production
The move towards carbon-free hydrogen production is gaining momentum globally, with several countries and companies investing in the technology. Hydrogen is a promising alternative to fossil fuels and can play a critical role in transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
Carbon-free hydrogen production can potentially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution, making it a significant step towards mitigating climate change. Hydrogen can be used as fuel for vehicles, power generation, and heating, making it a versatile energy carrier.
The development of MMR-SOEC-linked integrated plants will lead to more efficient hydrogen production, lowering the cost and improving the availability of hydrogen as an alternative fuel. The partnership’s five-year research and development plan will also promote technological innovation and create new job opportunities.
Potential Challenges Surrounding Carbon-Free Hydrogen Production
Despite the potential benefits, several challenges are associated with carbon-free hydrogen production. The technology requires a significant investment in infrastructure, including the construction of hydrogen refuelling stations and pipelines. This infrastructure is not yet widely available, limiting the use of hydrogen as a fuel.
SK Ecoplant and Hyundai Engineering’s partnership with USNC to develop carbon-free hydrogen production is a significant step towards creating a low-carbon economy. The use of MMR and SOEC technology will lead to efficient, cost-competitive, and carbon-free hydrogen production, contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The five-year research and development plan will also promote technological innovation and create new job opportunities.
