Challenges Faced by Electrolyser OEMs in Scaling Green Hydrogen Production
Key Ideas
- Incumbent electrolyser OEMs are challenged by the need to scale up production to meet the rising demand for green hydrogen.
- Existing electrolyser technology designed for industries like chlor-alkali production requires significant innovation to cater to large-scale green hydrogen needs.
- Alkaline and PEM electrolysis technologies are rapidly advancing, with falling costs, improved efficiencies, and the adoption of new materials.
- Technological advancements in stack architecture, manufacturing processes, and electrode designs are driving the transformation in green hydrogen production.
The article delves into the challenges faced by incumbent electrolyser original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) in scaling up production capacity to meet the anticipated surge in demand for green hydrogen in the upcoming decade. With a focus on alkaline and PEM electrolysers, which are already in use in industries like chlor-alkali manufacture, the article highlights the need for significant technological evolution to adapt these electrolyser products to the demands of large-scale green hydrogen production. The pace of innovation in alkaline and PEM electrolysis has been swift, leading to cost reductions and efficiency enhancements. Notable changes include the transformation in stack architecture, advancements in manufacturing methods, and the shift towards using more cost-effective and widely available materials. These developments are crucial for the successful scale-up of green hydrogen production and signify a positive outlook towards addressing the challenges in the industry.