China Petroleum & Chemical Corporation (Sinopec) has achieved a significant milestone by successfully completing China’s first factory-based seawater hydrogen production project at its Qingdao Refinery. This groundbreaking initiative combines direct seawater electrolysis with renewable energy-powered green hydrogen production, demonstrating a sustainable solution for coastal regions to generate hydrogen while also effectively utilizing high-salinity industrial wastewater. The project, producing 20 cubic meters of green hydrogen per hour, utilizes green electricity from a floating photovoltaic power station to drive the electrolysis process, seamlessly integrating the produced hydrogen into the refinery’s operations for various uses, from refining processes to fueling hydrogen-powered vehicles. The innovative aspect lies in conducting the entire production process within a factory setting, ensuring operational efficiency and stability. Seawater hydrogen production offers a promising pathway for directly converting seawater into hydrogen, thereby leveraging renewable energy sources to create green hydrogen – a more accessible and storable energy form. Despite the challenges posed by seawater impurities such as salt content and corrosive elements, Sinopec has collaborated with the Dalian Institute of Petroleum and Petrochemicals to develop specialized equipment and processes to address these issues. By implementing technologies like chlorine-resistant electrodes, high-performance electrode plates, and advanced seawater circulation systems, the project has successfully translated research findings into practical applications. Sinopec's overarching goal is to lead China's hydrogen energy sector by investing in research, technology development, and infrastructure expansion. The company aims to establish numerous hydrogen refueling stations and fuel supply centers by 2024, showcasing its dedication to driving the growth and quality of China's hydrogen energy industry. As a key player in the energy and petrochemical sector, Sinopec's endeavors extend across various domains, including upstream and downstream operations, petroleum exploration and production, coal and oil refining, as well as new energy products like hydrogen, solar, wind, and geothermal energy. The company's diverse portfolio spans industrial investment, R&D, and international trade, positioning it as a major contributor to China's energy landscape.