Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Launches 400kW Class SOEC Test Module for High-Efficiency Hydrogen Production

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) has made significant progress in the field of hydrogen production with the launch of a test module for Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) technology. This next-generation high-efficiency hydrogen production technology is based on the previously developed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC). The test module, with a capacity of 400 kW, was designed and manufactured based on the technology adopted for the SOFC.

The SOEC test module utilizes MHI’s proprietary tubular cell stack, which sets it apart from competing systems by enabling high-pressure operation. During test operations, the module demonstrated a high electrolytic efficiency, confirming its potential for high efficiency hydrogen production. With an overall efficiency goal of 90%, this achievement is a major step forward for MHI.

The development of the SOEC test module took place at the Takasago Hydrogen Park, located within MHI’s Takasago Machinery Works in Japan. This facility is at the forefront of hydrogen technology verification, with integrated capabilities from production to power generation. It serves as a platform for MHI to accelerate the development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies and systems.

The successful operation of the 400 kW test module at Takasago Hydrogen Park will contribute to the further enhancement of output and capacity. MHI is also making progress towards the development of a “megawatt class” SOEC, with successful cartridge tests under larger amounts of electric current already conducted.

In the coming years, MHI plans to install a megawatt-class SOEC system demonstration facility at Takasago Hydrogen Park, with the aim of commercializing the technology. This will further support the realization of MHI’s mission to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040.

Takasago Hydrogen Park is a groundbreaking facility that encompasses hydrogen production, storage, and utilization areas. It has already achieved significant milestones, such as the successful operation of an alkaline electrolyzer with high hydrogen production capacity and demonstration operations of hydrogen fuel co-firing in gas turbines.

With its commitment to the energy transition, MHI is driving the development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies. By providing reliable and efficient products, the company aims to contribute to the global supply of clean electricity and the rapid transition to a carbon-neutral world.

As MHI celebrates the 60th anniversary of Takasago Machinery Works, the company remains dedicated to pursuing the energy transition and making significant advancements towards a sustainable future. Takasago Hydrogen Park will continue to be at the forefront of these efforts, driving further progress in hydrogen technology and its applications.

FAQ Section:

1. What is the Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) technology developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI)?
The SOEC technology is a next-generation high-efficiency hydrogen production technology developed by MHI. It is based on the previously developed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology.

2. What is the capacity of the test module developed by MHI?
The test module developed by MHI has a capacity of 400 kW.

3. How does the SOEC test module set itself apart from competing systems?
The SOEC test module utilizes MHI’s proprietary tubular cell stack, which enables high-pressure operation. This feature distinguishes it from competing systems.

4. What efficiency goal does MHI aim to achieve with its hydrogen production technology?
MHI aims to achieve an overall efficiency of 90% with its hydrogen production technology.

5. Where was the development of the SOEC test module carried out?
The development of the SOEC test module took place at the Takasago Hydrogen Park, located within MHI’s Takasago Machinery Works in Japan.

6. What role does the Takasago Hydrogen Park serve?
The Takasago Hydrogen Park serves as a platform for MHI to accelerate the development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies and systems. It encompasses hydrogen production, storage, and utilization areas.

7. What further advancements is MHI making in the development of SOEC technology?
MHI is making progress towards the development of a “megawatt class” SOEC. Successful cartridge tests under larger amounts of electric current have already been conducted.

8. What are MHI’s plans for commercializing the SOEC technology?
MHI plans to install a megawatt-class SOEC system demonstration facility at the Takasago Hydrogen Park with the aim of commercializing the technology.

9. What is the mission of MHI regarding carbon neutrality?
MHI aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2040, and the further development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies supports this mission.

10. What is the significance of Takasago Hydrogen Park?
Takasago Hydrogen Park is a groundbreaking facility that plays a crucial role in the development and verification of hydrogen technology. It has achieved significant milestones and continues to drive progress in hydrogen technology and its applications.

Definitions:
– Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) technology: It is a next-generation high-efficiency hydrogen production technology based on Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology. SOEC allows for the high-pressure operation of hydrogen production.
– Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) technology: It is a fuel cell technology that generates electricity by electrochemically combining a fuel (such as hydrogen) and an oxidant (such as oxygen) through a ceramic electrolyte material.

Suggested Related Links:
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Official Website
News on MHI’s Hydrogen Production Technology