Southern California Gas Co. will collaborate with H2U Technologies, Inc. to test a new, less costly form of PEM electrolyzer.

According to an early study by H2U Technologies, the new technology’s cost target is half that of current PEM electrolyzers, with a total cost of ownership that is estimated to be 75 percent lower over its lifetime.

Validation studies on the efficiency of new non-precious metal catalysts, materials used in very limited amounts to trigger and accelerate the chemical process of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen, will be part of SoCalGas’ research with H2U Technologies.

Furthermore, the planned research would involve testing methods and materials that could lower production costs and accelerate manufacturing scale-up.

“Innovations that make green hydrogen production more cost-effective and scalable are critical to providing clean, safe and reliable energy for the nearly 22 million Californians we serve while reaching our net-zero emissions goal. Partnering with H2U Technologies will provide meaningful advancements that aim to move this important technology forward.”
Neil Navin, SoCalGas vice president of clean energy innovations.

“Renewable electricity production is expected to grow exponentially in California in the next two decades, so the ability to store it by producing green hydrogen will be crucial. We’re excited to advance our electrolyzer technologies and new catalysts with the help of SoCalGas. It will be of great benefit to Californians and all of society.”
Jim Disanto, H2U Technologies board chairman.