Japanese technology firm Asahi Kasei Corp has recently launched a multi-module hydrogen production pilot plant with a total capacity of 3.2 MW in Kawasaki city, Kanagawa prefecture.
The pilot facility comprises four 0.8-MW Aqualyzer alkaline water electrolyser modules, which are now operational under real-world conditions, including maintenance periods and nighttime operation, according to an announcement by the company.
The construction and operation of the pilot plant were supported by Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) through its Green Innovation Fund.
Asahi Kasei intends to leverage the data gathered from these trials to refine the equipment design, operational methods, and control technology of the electrolysis system.
The company's future plans involve implementing a multi-module approach, with aspirations to deploy up to ten 10-MW modules, resulting in a 100-MW commercial large-scale electrolysis system for green hydrogen production.
Asahi Kasei has set its sights on commencing commercial activities for its alkaline water electrolysers by 2025, aiming to achieve total sales of JPY 100 billion (USD 642 million / EUR 594 million) by 2030.
