Statements of companies and regulators with links of primary sources about real projects
SARCO, Go Energy sign MoU to develop green #hydrogen production
Saudi Arabian Refineries Company announces the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UAE-based energy innovation Go Energy Company to develop the green hydrogen project in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The two companies agreed to the following:
1. Conduct a joint study to develop the green hydrogen (ammonia) proposed by both companies.
2. Design a legal framework to support cooperation between the two parties.
Source https://tinyurl.com/4esjyva9
Hyundai Motor and PlusAI Recognized in TIME’s ‘Best Inventions 2025’ for Autonomous Hydrogen Fuel Cell Truck
For over two decades, TIME has published its annual Best Inventions list, spotlighting innovations that transform how we live, work and move. This year’s selection of 300 groundbreaking solutions highlights the industry-defining potential of Hyundai Motor and PlusAI’s hydrogen-powered autonomous truck.
The award-winning truck integrates Hyundai Motor’s proven XCIENT Fuel Cell Class 8 heavy-duty truck platform — the world’s first mass-produced hydrogen-powered heavy-duty truck — with PlusAI’s Level 4 autonomous SuperDrive™ virtual driver. The combination delivers a cutting-edge solution for long-haul freight, enabling zero-tailpipe-emission operations and enhanced logistics efficiency.
“This recognition by TIME is a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration,” said Chul Youn Park, Senior Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Light Commercial Vehicle Business Division at Hyundai Motor Company. “It’s a true honor to be recognized by TIME’s Best Inventions, which celebrates innovations that shape a better future. At Hyundai, we aim to contribute to building a sustainable and safe freight ecosystem through hydrogen-powered commercial vehicles. We deeply value our partnership with PlusAI, which has been instrumental in realizing this shared vision.”
David Liu, CEO and Co-founder at PlusAI, added, “It is an honor to have TIME recognize our collaboration with Hyundai Motor as one of the Best Inventions of 2025. This award underscores PlusAI’s leadership as an AI-native technology company, where our autonomous driving system is designed from the ground up to deliver innovation with safety and scalability at its core. By combining Hyundai’s hydrogen fuel cell platform with our cutting-edge autonomous driving software, we are setting a new benchmark for sustainable and transformative freight transportation.”
Press release https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en
PORR and Wiener Netze now rectify outages with almost zero emissions using electric and hydrogen-based drives
Wiener Netze and PORR have initiated the decarbonisation of their emergency response service. In a pilot project, the “CO₂-neutral construction team” uses only equipment powered by alternative drives and fuels to carry out work on the electricity, gas, district heating and data infrastructure of Austria’s largest combined network operator. The project’s official launched on 9 October 2025.
Factbox
- Pilot project with Wiener Netze
- Vehicle fleet with electric and hydrogen-based drives
- 46,500 kg CO2e savings in one year
- Fleet conversion part of decarbonisation strategy
If excavation work is required due to a gas leak, damage to a power cable or a fault in a district heating pipeline, that’s when they arrive: The five-person PORR construction team, equipped with around ten machines. The site is cordoned off, the ground is excavated, and repair work begins. It’s common to use excavators and other machinery powered by diesel for operations like this. But alternatives are already available now, explains PORR CEO Karl-Heinz Strauss: “For this joint pilot project with Wiener Netze, PORR has assembled a fleet of vehicles powered exclusively by electric and hydrogen-based drives. In addition, a truck with a crane running on HVO 100 (hydrotreated vegetable oil) is being used. This will allow us to reduce the CO₂e emissions of this construction team by roughly 90% over the course of a year.”
The Vienna University of Technology (TU Wien), which is providing scientific support for the project, calculates that approximately 46,500 kilograms of CO₂e can be saved annually. The calculation takes into account emissions from diesel, HVO 100, hydrogen, and electricity.
Energetic project launch
The starting signal came on 9 October: Work began on a district heating pipeline in Vienna’s 6th district in the presence of Peter Weinelt, CEO of Wiener Stadtwerke, Gerhard Fida, Chairman of the Management Board of Wiener Netze, and Karl-Heinz Strauss, CEO of PORR.
“Sustainability is a top priority for Wiener Stadtwerke. Together, we are pursuing the city of Vienna’s goal of becoming CO₂-neutral by 2040 across multiple levels. Alongside our Raus aus Gas (Ditch the gas) initiative, we’re also focusing on implementing green measures within our own operations. Since the construction sector is a major contributor to CO₂ emissions, we’re taking proactive steps: By applying special construction or relining methods, we reduce excavation work and are now making Wiener Netze’s construction team largely CO₂-free”, says Peter Weinelt. “As Wiener Netze, we’re responsible for the safe operation of the electricity, gas, and district heating networks in our city”, adds Gerhard Fida. “In the rare event of an interruption to supply, our aim is to reconnect our customers to the network as quickly as possible. With our construction team now using hydrogen as a clean energy source, we’ll be able to carry out this work in a way that is almost CO₂-neutral”.
Hydrogen-powered backhoe loader as centrepiece
The CO₂-neutral construction team’s fleet includes passenger cars, trucks with cranes, vans, power storage units, demolition hammers, compaction attachments, vibrating plates, and small equipment. The team’s centrepiece is a new backhoe loader from the international manufacturer JCB, which uses hydrogen directly as its primary fuel. The Vienna pilot project marks the world’s first deployment of this machine by the manufacturer, serving to test its viability in practice.
JCB, the world’s third-largest manufacturer of construction machinery, is a leader in innovative alternative drive technologies, including battery-electric and hydrogen-powered systems. Frank Zander, JCB Director Major Accounts Europe, says: “JCB has demonstrated that internal combustion engine technology can successfully run on hydrogen in our machines. This pilot project with PORR and Wiener Netze shows how the decarbonisation of construction sites can become reality using hydrogen as a CO₂-free fuel”.
PORR is currently working with various clients on multiple pilot projects using alternative drive technologies. For instance, data is being collected at a construction site in Vienna’s 14th district to support academic research by TU Wien on the forward-looking topic of “CO₂-neutral construction sites”.
Decarbonising the machinery fleet
Within PORR’s new decarbonisation strategy, the systemic conversion of its vehicle and machinery fleet is regarded as the most essential lever for reducing Scope 1 emissions. That’s why PORR is focusing on innovative drive technologies and alternative fuels such as HVO 100 as part of the strategic development of its equipment portfolio. However, progress is naturally limited by what machinery is available on the market.
Karl-Heinz Strauss: “We’re already taking targeted, step-by-step measures to electrify small equipment. For medium to large machines, however, battery-electric concepts often bump up against technical and economic limitations. In the long term, we see significant potential in the expanded use of hydrogen. We’re working closely with machinery manufacturers, research institutions, and of course innovative clients such as Wiener Netze to drive forward these developments together”.
Press release https://www.porr.at/en/
Nuvera refuelled their mobile hydrogen-powered charger using the OneH2 mobile refuelling station
In collaboration with OneH2, Inc., Nuvera’s HydroCharge™ unit, a mobile hydrogen-powered DC fast charger and AC genset designed to deliver clean, reliable power for EV charging and electric equipment in off-grid and remote locations, has been fueled and put to work, the Nuvera announced in its LinkedIn.
OneH2 supplies high-purity hydrogen via its modular trailer and mobile refueling assets( on photo one of OneH2’s refueling).
HydroCharge turns hydrogen into reliable, on-demand energy for EVs and electric equipment, making it a practical solution for logistics yards, ports, distribution centers, and other sites where grid access can’t keep up or isn’t available.
Partnerships like this demonstrate how hydrogen is the backbone of a flexible, scalable zero-emission energy ecosystem. We’re proud to collaborate with industry leaders like OneH2 to make hydrogen-powered operations achievable today.
Source https://tinyurl.com/2ansyh6d
City of Freiburg, ASF, and badenova open hydrogen filling station at Eichelbuck
ASF Solar GmbH, a joint subsidiary of ASF and badenovaWÄRMEPLUS, is responsible for the project. In addition to the new hydrogen filling station, ASF Solar will also be building an electrolysis plant on the Eichelbuck site starting in 2026. Its energy needs will be largely covered by a purpose-built photovoltaic system. Green hydrogen will thus be produced directly on-site. The holistic concept combines the transition to climate-neutral drive systems with the development of a dedicated hydrogen infrastructure, thus laying the foundation for permanently sustainable municipal waste disposal.
The total investment for the entire project is approximately €8 million. Of this, €4.25 million in funding has been provided to date: €3 million from the City of Freiburg’s Future Fund, €600,000 from the State of Baden-Württemberg, €500,000 from the Innovation and Technology Promotion Agency (itg) through the trinational “Hydrogen Valley South Baden” project, and €150,000 from the badenova Innovation Fund.
Full press release https://tinyurl.com/p9bseu38
Chiyoda plans to deliver a water electrolysis system for Toyota Tsusho, Eurus Energy and Iwatani
Chiyoda Corporation (Chiyoda) announced plans to deliver a water electrolysis system, currently under development by Chiyoda and Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota), for a low-carbon hydrogen production business being conducted by Toyota Tsusho Corporation, Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation (Eurus Energy) and Iwatani Corporation at Aichi Steel Corporation (Aichi Steel).
The project has been certified by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry under the ‘Support Focusing on the Price Gap*1scheme based on the Hydrogen Society Promotion Act, which supports the use of low-carbon hydrogen, etc. for a smooth transition to a decarbonized growth-oriented economic structure’. Chiyoda plans to install the water electrolysis system in Aichi Steel’s Chita Factory using a wind power plant owned by Eurus Energy.
Chiyoda will manufacture and sell water electrolysis equipment using Toyota-manufactured stacks, combining Toyota’s fuel cell technologies and cell stack and mass production knowledge with Chiyoda’s process plant design expertise and large-scale plant construction capabilities. As a comprehensive engineering company, Chiyoda is involved in upstream hydrogen production and the development of hydrogen utilization technologies and transportation carriers. Chiyoda combines its ‘in-house’ hydrogen technology capabilities with Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) projects, from early feasibility studies, with the aim of building hydrogen value chains in a future hydrogen society that will contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral future.
Based on its purpose of ‘Enriching Society through Engineering Value’, Chiyoda will continue prioritizing co-creation with customers as partners to achieve business success, contributing to the development of a sustainable society by achieving harmony between energy and the environment and a healthy and prosperous future.
Press release https://www.chiyodacorp.com/en/
Toyoda Gosei’s High-Pressure Hydrogen Tank Used on Large Truck
Kiyosu, Japan, October 10, 2025: High-pressure hydrogen tanks manufactured by Toyoda Gosei Co., Ltd. are used on large fuel cell trucks launched in October by Hino Motors, Ltd. Commercial vehicles such as linehaul trucks travel long distances in a day and need sufficient range, and the spread of fuel cell trucks is promising to meet those needs. Toyoda Gosei will continue contributing to the realization of a hydrogen society through the development and production of hydrogen tanks that are a key component of fuel cell vehicles.
As a next-generation energy source that does not emit CO2 during use, the spread of hydrogen is promising for the achievement of carbon neutrality. Toyoda Gosei has leveraged its expertise in polymers such as molding technology for plastics and rubber in co-developing, with Toyota Motor Corporation, a tank that efficiently stores hydrogen under high pressure (approx. 700 atm) for the Mirai (2nd generation) fuel cell vehicle. These tanks have been produced at Toyoda Gosei’s Inabe Plant since November 2020. The company then launched a large high-pressure hydrogen tank in 2023, which has so far been used on small trucks and boats.
Six Toyoda Gosei tanks are used on each truck, which can hold about nine times as much hydrogen* as a passenger vehicle (Mirai).
Outline of tanks used on large truck
| Diameter | Approx. 50 cm | |
| Length | Approx. 190 cm | Approx. 200 cm |
| Capacity | Approx. 200 L | Approx. 230 L |
| Hydrogen filling volume (70MPa) | Approx. 8 kg | Approx. 9 kg |
In addition to general mobility, including automobiles, motorcycles, boats and trains, hydrogen is promising for future use in daily life. Toyoda Gosei will contribute to the achievement of a hydrogen society by providing tanks that meet hydrogen loading needs and improving efficiency in hydrogen storage.
Press release https://www.toyoda-gosei.com
Hino Motors Launches New Fuel Cell Heavy-Duty Truck
Hino Motors, Ltd. has announced the release of Japan’s first mass-produced fuel cell heavy-duty truck, the Hino Profia Z FCV (Fuel Cell Vehicle).
The Profia Z FCV has been jointly developed by Toyota Motor Corporation and Hino, based on Hino’s heavy-duty truck, the Hino Profia (known as the 700 Series in Australia) and will be released to the Japanese market on 24 October.
The chassis is designed to maximise the operator’s load capacity while accommodating the component layout requirements of a fuel cell vehicle.
The powertrain consists of two fuel cell stacks from Toyota’s MIRAI fuel cell vehicle and has been customised for heavy-duty commercial vehicle use.
It also incorporates technology and driving control from Hino heavy-duty and electric vehicles.
The hydrogen refuelling takes between 15 and 30 minutes and the driving range for a loaded vehicle is approximately 650 kilometres.
The Profia Z FCV will be launched following the successful final stage of trials which involved multiple vehicles embedded in customer operations.
“Globally, Hino is aiming to achieve carbon neutrality – in Japan, the entire domestic freight fleet accounts for 60% of CO2 emissions, and heavy-duty vehicles are a significant contributor to this,” said Richard Emery, Hino Australia President and CEO.
“As we move towards carbon neutrality, it is important to adopt a ‘multi-pathway’ approach to ensure we have the most suitable powertrains for the various applications,” said Mr Emery.
“Fuel cell vehicles, which generate electricity from hydrogen, are well-suited to heavy-duty trucks in long-distance transport operations, as they provide the necessary cruising range, payload capacity, and fast refuelling.
“This is an exciting global development for Hino – in Australia, Hino has led the way with the light-duty 300 Series Hybrid Electric for over 18 years, and we are currently evaluating the suitability of multiple low and zero emission solutions, from the Hino Dutro Z EV (300 Series) battery electric vehicle which is undergoing Australian market operational evaluation to the heavy-duty Profia (700 Series) Hybrid.
“The Hino Profia Z FCV is yet another innovative Hino solution that Hino Australia will consider for the Australian market,” concluded Mr Emery.
Press release https://tinyurl.com/33tuje57
SARRALLE successfully completes a pioneering Green Hydrogen project at ArcelorMittal Olaberria
SARRALLE has achieved a major milestone in the path toward industrial decarbonization with the successful completion of a pioneering green hydrogen combustion system at ArcelorMittal’s Olaberria plant, one of Europe’s most advanced steel production facilities.
The project represents a breakthrough in the use of green hydrogen and oxy-combustion technologies within the steelmaking industry. Designed, manufactured, and installed entirely by SARRALLE, the system enables the reheating furnace in the rolling mill to operate using 100% green hydrogen instead of natural gas — fully eliminating CO₂ emissions from the combustion process.
Developed in close collaboration with Nippon Gases, the system replaces traditional air–natural gas burners with hydrogen-based oxy-fuel burners, significantly improving thermal efficiency and ensuring cleaner, more sustainable steel production. The combustion of hydrogen generates only water vapor, making it a key enabler of zero-emission processes.
As reheating furnaces are among the most energy-intensive systems in steel plants — consuming up to 80% of a facility’s fuel — this innovation represents a crucial step toward the decarbonization of the steel sector, which currently accounts for around 9% of global CO₂ emissions.
“This project is a key step toward the future of the steel industry. It proves that green hydrogen combustion technology is already a reality and that decarbonizing industrial processes is possible,” says Itsaso Auzmendi-Murua, Head of the Hydrogen Business Line at SARRALLE.
With this achievement, SARRALLE strengthens its leadership in hydrogen-based industrial solutions, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, energy transition, and the sustainable future of the steel industry.
Press release https://www.sarralle.com/en
P2X Solutions and Sunfire Expand Partnership With New Hydrogen Project
Sunfire awarded contract to conduct FEED study for 40 MW hydrogen project in Joensuu, Finland.
At the start of the year, P2X Solutions and Sunfire marked a historic milestone with the first industrial scale green hydrogen production in Finland’s energy history. Building on this achievement, the two hydrogen pioneers are now further strengthening their partnership:
Sunfire has been selected by P2X Solutions to conduct the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) study for the 40 MW hydrogen project in Joensuu, Finland. For this project, P2X Solutions is continuing to leverage the German electrolysis specialist’s industrial pressurized alkaline technology. The companies announced the ongoing collaboration today at the World Hydrogen Congress in Copenhagen.
Herkko Plit, CEO of P2X Solutions, underlines: “The FEED study is an important milestone towards the investment decision of our next undertaking in Joensuu, which will triple our total capacity for green hydrogen production. We are very pleased to tackle this challenge together with Sunfire and its technology.”
Nils Aldag, CEO of Sunfire, states: “The commissioning of the Harjavalta plant showcased the strong execution capabilities of P2X Solutions and Sunfire in delivering commercial hydrogen projects. I’m excited that we are now taking our partnership to the next level in Joensuu — as a trusted technology partner alongside P2X Solutions, with a clear mission: to drive the growth of the hydrogen economy in Finland and Europe.”
Milestone for Project Implementation
Sunfire has already started the comprehensive FEED study, which, in close collaboration with the integration partners, defines the requirements and prerequisites for a 40 MW pressurized alkaline electrolyzer. The outcome of the study represents a key milestone on the path to project realization and ensures effective implementation.
In Joensuu, the green hydrogen produced by the electrolysis plant will later be used to produce e-methanol — a synthetic fuel that plays a key role in reducing CO₂ emissions, particularly in the shipping and aviation industries.
Press release https://sunfire.de/en/
hylane brings first hydrogen truck with Bosch fuel cell to German roads
hylane’s rental model enables straightforward deployment for the Bosch plant in Nuremberg. The Iveco vehicle is equipped with Bosch’s Fuel Cell Power Module (FCPM). The truck not only reduces emissions, but also collects data for the further development of fuel cell technology.
The vehicle is a 40-tonne Iveco truck with a Bosch Fuel Cell Power Module (FCPM). The combination is ‘Made in Germany’ technology: the truck was produced in Ulm, and the fuel cell drive system at the Bosch plant in Stuttgart-Feuerbach. The vehicle has a range of up to 800 kilometres. The five hydrogen tanks installed can hold up to 70 kilograms at a pressure of 700 bar. The fuel cell system delivers an output of over 200 kilowatts and powers an electric axle. Two battery packs serve as energy buffers. The truck’s system output is 400 kilowatts, and its gross vehicle weight is up to 44 tonnes.
The Iveco truck with Bosch fuel cell is operated by the Schäflein freight forwarding company on behalf of the Bosch plant. Schäflein, in turn, rents the vehicle from hylane. The truck is expected to cover around 12,000 kilometres per year and is used on fixed routes. Here, it is mainly used to transport products from the Bosch plant in Nuremberg.
Full press release( translated by DeepL) https://www.hylane.de
Stadler to build the first hydrogen trains for Sicily
Stadler expands its presence in Italy and signs first contract with Ferrovia Circumetnea (FCE) for the design and supply of two narrow-gauge hydrogen-powered trains. The new vehicles will contribute to sustainable rail transport and will run through the volcanic landscapes of Mount Etna.
“It is a great pleasure for us to realise this project and build the first two narrow-gauge hydrogen-powered trains for Sicily. The trains ordered by FCE will contribute to the decarbonisation of Italian rail transport in a new region and expand Stadler’s presence in the Italian market. We thank FCE for the trust they have placed in us and for joining us as part of the Italian Green Technology Team”, said Maurizio Oberti, Stadler’s Sales & Marketing Director for Italy.
At EXPO Ferroviaria, an international trade fair dedicated to the railway industry held last week in Milan, Stadler and the transport company Ferrovia Circumetnea (FCE) signed the first contract for the design and supply of two narrow-gauge hydrogen-powered trains.
The agreement signed following the award of the public tender launched by FCE provides for the possibility of supplying a further 13 vehicles of the same type. The supply of the first two trains also includes five years of full service and technical spare parts.
Technical features of the new trains
The new hydrogen-powered vehicles will be designed and built at Stadler’s headquarters in Bussnang, in the canton of Thurgau, Switzerland.
Each hydrogen train consists of two passenger coaches and a central “Power Pack” unit containing the fuel cells and hydrogen tanks.
The trains have 87 seats and can carry a total of 147 passengers. The train also has a low-floor access to allow passengers with reduced mobility and elderly people to easily get on board. It is equipped with a universal PRM toilet and areas for passengers with bicycles and/or pushchairs.
The particularly low axle load of less than 11 tons per axle allows the trains to run on the entire narrow-gauge network operated by FCE.
The trains will run along Etna Nature Park
Particular attention has been paid to the traction system, considering the steep gradients that characterise the Circumetnea line. The static converters and traction batteries are positioned above the motor bogies to ensure excellent grip and optimal traction effort in all weather conditions.
The new trains are intended to run on the Paternò – Randazzo route, which winds through the Etna Nature Park.
19 hydrogen trains for the Italian market
The new order from FCE brings the total number of Stadler narrow-gauge hydrogen trains for the Italian market to 19. The trains were ordered by three different customers in three regions of Italy: 8 vehicles from ARST (Sardinia region) and 9 from FdC (Calabria region). These are the world’s first tailor-made narrow-gauge trains powered by hydrogen and fuel cells.
Press release https://www.stadlerrail.com/en/home
Iveco Group inaugurates renovated test track in Germany capable to accommodatе hydrogen-powered vehicles
IVECO, the brand of Iveco Group N.V. that designs, manufactures and markets light, medium and heavy commercial vehicles, has officially inaugurated its fully renovated and expanded test track in Ulm, Germany. This renovation follows last year’s upgrade to the Group’s proving ground in Turin, Italy: together, the two state-of-the-art complexes significantly advance the company’s testing capabilities for next-generation commercial vehicles.
Originally opened in the late 1980s, the Ulm test track just underwent a major renovation to enhance testing of Iveco Group’s mobility solutions for the future, including trucks, buses and special-purpose vehicles. The 150,000 square metres of this cutting-edge complex feature a new driving dynamics area and a 1.6-kilometre oval circuit with steep curves and dedicated tracks for braking, noise testing and incline trials under highly realistic conditions. In addition, the track is designed to accommodate future technologies, such as those on board electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
Sustainability played a big role in this renovation: large volumes of asphalt and concrete were recycled, locally sourced gravel and stone minimised transport distances, and advanced construction methods reduced emissions on-site. The attention to environmental aspects is also seen in optimised rainwater management and noise protection measures.
The renovation in Ulm follows the renewal of the test track in Turin, Italy, which was reopened in July 2024 after eight months of work. The historic track was first built in 1975 and has been fully modernised with a new road surface and upgraded safety systems extending across 30,000 square metres. The complex now includes a 1.2-kilometer oval circuit, a dedicated area for acceleration and braking tests, and slopes ranging from 8% to 60% for performance validation and homologation of IVECO and IVECO BUS vehicles.
The two operations confirm continued investments in Iveco Group’s industrial footprint and enhance its long-term capacity to deliver the most innovative and sustainable transport solutions.
Press release https://www.ivecogroup.com
Michelin and Voliris join forces to create an innovative hydrogen ready aircraft
Michelin Inflatable Solutions will collaborate on the development of NATAC, the Automated Container Transport Air Shuttle developed by Voliris. Michelin Inflatable Solutions brings its expertise in composite materials and their assembly to the service of growing technological products. By developing innovative industrial methods for assembling technical materials, Michelin shares its knowledge of materials to support the manufacture of the NATAC’s wing envelope.The Voliris NATAC aims to transport freight with zero CO2 emissions, using a flying wing suited to areas with limited infrastructure. Heavier than air, this aircraft requires no ballast when unloading its cargo and could transform the air freight sector.
The wing envelope is one of the NATAC’s most innovative features, due to the major technical constraints to which it is subjected. Segmented into five lobes, the envelope has a total volume of 25,000 m-3 and arrives folded at the deployment site before being inflated. Its geometry is maintained by a pulley system that varies the volume by adjusting its aerodynamic shape at different altitudes. In addition to this internal tension, the envelope must withstand significant external loads from the cables carrying the cargo (up to 30 tonnes), mechanical stresses caused by inflation pressure across a large surface area (8,000 m-2), and the requirement to remain impermeable to helium and, ultimately, hydrogen.
Through its subsidiary Michelin Inflatable Solutions, Michelin is leveraging its technical coated textiles expertise to qualify the materials for the flexible envelope and develop assembly processes.
Voliris and Michelin Inflatable Solutions plan to manufacture a first full-scale demonstrator of the NATAC wing by 2028 for ground testing and validation of the shuttle’s on-site deployment. This full-scale ground-based envelope will be the second key milestone for the Voliris NATAC project, following successful flight tests of a 1/7-scale shuttle prototype. To operate in any location, the NATAC has a distinctive feature: it can be shipped in 10 standard 40-foot containers and assembled directly at the departure site. The envelope must therefore be foldable without compromising its integrity – an additional challenge for Michelin Inflatable Solutions that requires an innovative approach combining materials science with expertise in folding-induced stresses.
This air shuttle is a hybrid solution combining features of airships and cargo aircraft. The NATAC requires no paved runway for takeoff, helping to limit the impact of land artificialization. To transport freight with zero CO2 emissions, the aircraft is designed to be 100% hydrogen-compatible, with hydrogen eventually serving as both fuel and lifting gas. Lastly, its autonomous flight system enables safe, unpiloted operations, allowing it to reach areas that are difficult to access or lack heavy infrastructure. By partnering with Voliris, Michelin Inflatable Solutions is shaping the future of composites and air freight.
Press release https://www.michelin.com/en/
ZeroAvia: New Drivers for Hydrogen Fuel Cell Adoption in Aviation
ZeroAvia, a company developing hydrogen-powered aircraft, shared its views on the present and future of hydrogen aviation
When ZeroAvia first formed, our enthusiasm for fuel cells in hydrogen was too often met with a close-minded cynicism. There was a common (although flawed) assumption among some industry watchers that battery energy density would improve five-fold in less than a decade and that Sustainable Aviation Fuel would rapidly scale up production and thus adoption by airlines.
A number of factors changed these preconceptions in the early part of this decade. First, Airbus launched its ZEROe program, then the Aerospace Technology Institute’s Fly Zero project published a definitive tome of reports which pinpointed liquid hydrogen as the ultimate fuel of the future for aviation (and with huge potential near-term application), then, most importantly, the aircraft started to fly! First, ZeroAvia’s 2020 six seat hydrogen-electric demonstrator, then our testbed 19-seat Dornier 228, and then also erstwhile competitor Universal Hydrogen’s Dash 8 Q300 flights. Rolls-Royce and easyJet then showed how comfortable an aircraft jet engine could be burning hydrogen with a ground test, Joby/H2Fly completed a landmark 523 nautical mile flight on fuel cell power using liquid hydrogen.
The market impact of these factors was big, and over the course of this time we saw major airlines go from pre-orders to definitive purchase orders, and we welcomed investment from Airbus, IAG, American, United, Alaska and other industry heavyweights.
A New Impetus
While timelines on some large commercial aircraft projects have slipped back, there is a bank of demand for engines, and certification projects are underway. It could be argued that it is a matter of time before the next great transition in commercial aircraft propulsion really takes hold.
Separately, hydrogen is picking up new impetus in other segments of aviation thanks to a unique set of drivers: new approaches to regulation, a thirst for greater endurance of novel electrical aircraft, such as electric Vertical Take-off and Landing (eVTOL) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV), and corresponding space and weight efficiency advances in low-to-mid power modular hydrogen fuel cell systems.
While large commercial airframes await technology advancement of high- temperature, next generation hydrogen fuel cells, at the smaller end, there are huge potential applications for streamlined, aerospace grade low-temperature proton exchange membrane (LTPEM) fuel cell systems.
FAA Mosaic and Fuel Cell Adoption
In August of this year, the Federal Aviaton Administration launched the Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) rule, with profound implications for the applicability of fuel cell propulsion in the general aviation category.
The changes include removing weight limit as a key qualification and allowing up to four seats, thus broadening the design envelope for aircraft that can obtain regulatory approval without a type certificate and a production certificate.
Qualifying aircraft are no longer limited to single piston engines, opening up the opportunity to certify these with new electric and hydrogen-electric powertrains. As with other aircraft segments, electric aircraft would deliver the best efficiency and maintenance costs, and hydrogen-electric would provide the best range of all electric options.
EIPP and Hydrogen-Electric VTOL
As the U.S. gets ready to kick demonstration of eVTOL platforms up a notch following the launch of the eVTOL and AAM Integration Pilot Program (EIPP), attention is turning to how these first demonstrated routes can be expanded to more use cases.
Replacing battery power systems with hydrogen fuel cells can significantly extend range,reduce maintenance costs caused by battery cycling, and improve operations thanks to quicker turnaround time (hydrogen refueling vs lengthy battery recharge times).
As regional aviation looks to the adoption of hydrogen for fixed-wing long-distance flight, many airports already have active programs examining hydrogen for both air and ground operations. EVTOL can be a further demand case for these growing hydrogen hubs at airport, with the sector benefiting from existing plans to establish infrastructure.
The key ingredient for the light-sport and eVTOL categories is modular, flexible fuel cell systems with power generation somewhere between a typical automotive application and a larger fixed-wing aircraft. As aerospace innovators push the boundaries of clean flight, one challenge persists: most current hydrogen fuel cell solutions aren’t designed with aviation’s unique constraints in mind. Flight duration, integration complexity, and weight limitations often hinder adoption.
The SuperStack Flex
ZeroAvia’s SuperStack Flex Fuel Cell System
ZeroAvia’s SuperStack Flex is a unique innovation in LTPEM hydrogen fuel cell platforms, engineered for flexibility, scalability, and ease of integration. Unlike traditional systems, the SuperStack Flex embraces a modular architecture, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of aircraft types, mission profiles, and testing environments.
SuperStack Flex offers scalable power output, is compact and lightweight to meet aviation’s strict weight and space constraints, and allows flexible integration, making it compatible with both conventional and unconventional aircraft structures.
ZeroAvia has made great strides on a system for 10-20 seat planes, but maintaining high specific power and aerospace-relevant design while reducing the power output to support smaller aircraft presented significant engineering challenges.
Additive Manufacturing at the core of our design
A key enabler in the system’s design and development is the use of Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) additive manufacturing. This allows for:
- Faster re-engineering and prototyping
- Integration of complex internal fluidic paths
- Reduction in part count and system complexity
By leveraging additive manufacturing, we can quickly respond to new integration challenges and fine tune system components for optimal performance in flight-specific environments.
SLS Additive Manufacturing
Enabling a Whole New Way to Fly
Advanced air mobility is coming. EVTOL designs are marching towards certification. General Aviation is empowered to innovate by a less restrictive regulatory environment. Together, these things mean a whole new way to fly is coming, and ZeroAvia LTPEM hydrogen fuel cells offer a practical pathway to deliver efficiency, endurance and low costs. Read more about our SuperStack Flex to see just how.
Source https://zeroavia.com/newsroom/
Air Products, Hitachi and Dura Vermeer demonstrate how hydrogen powers the construction sites
Air Products joined forces with Hitachi Energy, Dura Vermeer, and Hitachi Construction Machinery to demonstrate how hydrogen can power the construction sites of tomorrow, today, the Air Products announced in its LinkedIn.
Hitachi Energy’s HyFlex™ hydrogen-powered generator delivered clean electricity to a battery-type electric excavator at our Rotterdam site. This is a real life showcase of how green hydrogen can replace conventional diesel generators on-site.
By combining green hydrogen supply, innovative technology, and cross-industry collaboration, this project proves that zero-emission construction is both technically and operationally feasible.
“As the world’s largest hydrogen supplier, Air Products is proud to support this innovative step toward zero-emission construction. This demonstration proves that hydrogen-powered solutions are ready to perform in real-world conditions. Collaborations like this bring the energy transition to life, showing how hydrogen can decarbonise even the most challenging sectors.”- Caroline Stancell, Vice President Marketing and Growth Programmes, Europe & Africa, Air Products.
Source and video https://tinyurl.com/ymepcdm5
Nel Hydrogen US receives its third purchase order for a containerized PEM solution from H2 Energy
Nel Hydrogen US, a subsidiary of Nel ASA , has received a firm purchase order from H2 Energy for one MC500, a containerized 2.5 MW PEM electrolyser. The system will be delivered to the Association for Waste Disposal (Verein für Abfallentsorgung, VfA) in Buchs, Switzerland. VfA Buchs has selected H2 Energy to deliver a turn-key hydrogen production and refueling facility. The hydrogen produced will be integrated into the Swiss green hydrogen ecosystem and contribute to further decarbonize regional energy supply and mobility solutions.
The new plant will utilize locally generated electricity to produce hydrogen for VfA’s own fleet of waste collection trucks, for industrial use and for distribution within the broader Swiss hydrogen ecosystem.
This purchase order marks the second MC500 system H2 Energy has ordered from Nel, alongside a containerized MC400 and a smaller C30 PEM unit, a testament to the quality and reliability of Nel’s PEM technology, as well as the company’s long-standing experience in electrolyser manufacturing.
“H2 Energy has a long history of trusted cooperation with Nel dating back to 2016 where a C30 PEM electrolyser was used to fuel a first ecosystem based on heavy duty mobility. Since then we have installed and operated an MC400 PEM electrolyser for over 30,000 hours for our joint venture Hydrospider and have racked up over 12,000 hours on an MC500 with our customer WPO. These two H2 plants form the backbone of the Swiss Green Hydrogen Ecosystem, fueling a network of 18 refuelling stations and propelling a fleet of heavy-duty fuel cell trucks over 14,000,000 kilometers” says Rolf Huber, founder and Chairman H2 Energy.
“This next project for VfA marks another major milestone for the Swiss Green Hydrogen Ecosystem and we are looking forwards to continuing to work closely with Nel to decarbonize the mobility and other industry sectors in Switzerland and beyond,” Huber says.
“We are very pleased to support H2 Energy and VfA Buchs in this project. H2 Energy has been an early mover in building out a commercial green hydrogen value chain. This installation highlights the close relationship we have with the client and demonstrates their ability to consistently deliver high-quality projects into the field,” says Todd Cartwright, Chief Commercial Officer at Nel.
Press release https://nelhydrogen.com
Nordex Electrolyzers: The largest pressurised alkaline electrolyzer ever manufactured in Spain is ready for commissioning
The NX2500 electrolyzer stack has arrived at the test bench in Lumbier, Navarra, marking the next step in this exciting project, the Nordex Electrolyzers S.L announced in its LinkedIn.
After rolling out (almost) red carpet and completing the final connections, everything is ready to begin commissioning the largest pressurized alkaline electrolyzer ever designed and manufactured in Spain.
Nordex Electrolyzers S.L. is a joint venture between two experienced partners. The Nordex Group, one of the world’s largest wind turbine manufacturers with over 35 years experience, and Sodena, a public company of the Government of Navarre, Spain, that has been investing in innovative projects for over 40 years, have joined forces to manufacture and supply alkaline electrolyzers.
Source https://tinyurl.com/3835yc8j
ITM Power signs FEED contract for 5MW containerised green hydrogen plant
ITM Power have signed a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract for a project which has been shortlisted in the UK’s Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2).
ITM Power announced that it has signed a Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) contract for a project which has been shortlisted in the UK’s Hydrogen Allocation Round 2 (HAR2).
The FEED is based on multiple NEPTUNE V units, 5MW containerised green hydrogen plant. The project remains subject to a Final Investment Decision (FID). Customer expects the plant to be operational in 2028.
Dennis Schulz, CEO, said, “We are delighted to have signed the FEED contract for yet another UK HAR2 project. This is a further signal that NEPTUNE V is the leading containerised product for mid-scale green hydrogen projects, and we are looking forward to supporting our customer to progress the project through FID.”
Press release https://itm-power.com
Stargate Hydrogen scales up its product portfolio with a compact 10MW electrolyser
Stargate Hydrogen, a European-born innovator in the field of green hydrogen production technologies, announced today the launch of two major new product families:
- 5 MW Electrolyser Stack named Starbase
- 10 MW Electrolyser System module Aurora
The new products are designed to accelerate industrial decarbonisation via green hydrogen by providing compact, high-performance systems that allow customers such as refineries, chemical plants, and steel manufacturers to produce green hydrogen directly on-site. Aurora, the 10MW electrolyser outdoor-ready system module, stands out with its record-low footprint of just 14.4 m² per MW, making it the most space-efficient alkaline electrolyser of its kind on the market. More information about the products will be disclosed during the World Hydrogen TECH Expo in Hamburg on 20-22 October.
The 10MW Electrolyser
The 10 MW electrolyser packs two 5 MW Starbase stacks that deliver strong efficiency with a stack consumption of less than 49 kWh/kg, allowing to bring down the cost of green hydrogen for industrial customers. Together, Starbase and Aurora provide scalable, industrial-grade solutions to the growing demand for efficient large-scale hydrogen production systems.
“With Starbase and Aurora, we are addressing the two main barriers for industrial hydrogen adoption: cost of hydrogen and space constraints at industrial sites. By delivering the most compact and high-efficiency 10 MW electrolyser system on the market, we are empowering industries to integrate green hydrogen production directly into their existing operations,” said Marko Virkebau, CEO of Stargate Hydrogen. “This is a critical step forward for hard-to-abate industries seeking to decarbonise at scale.”
Stargate Hydrogen noted strong market interest in its latest products, with several commercial negotiations already ongoing for the first deliveries. The launch underscores the company’s commitment to providing systems that reduce space and energy requirements, making hydrogen adoption practical for energy-intensive industries.
Press release https://stargatehydrogen.com
SIAD and Brembo invest in Hydrospark forging a new strategic alliance for hydrogen
Two industrial leaders acquire a share in the innovative Italian start-up to accelerate the energy transition
SIAD and Brembo have announced their investment in Hydrospark, a start-up supported and launched by Petroceramics, which is specialized in the development of advanced technology for hydrogen energy production and storage.
The agreement foresees an equal investment up to €1 million from each company.
For SIAD – an international group active in Industrial Gases, Engineering, LPG, Natural Gas and Healthcare sectors – and Brembo – the global leader in braking systems,investing through its venture capital unit, Brembo Ventures – this investment
underlines the technological and industrial value of Hydrospark.
Hydrospark brings a major innovation into the sector: a modular, scalable platform built on proprietary ceramic materials and optimized manufacturing processes, enabling the production of Solid Oxide Cells with higher energy density and reduced
manufacturing costs.
Solid Oxide Cells, developed by Hydrospark, produce electricity and heat from hydrogen with high efficiency and zero emissions. They can also convert renewable energy into hydrogen, providing an advanced solution for sustainable energy storage.
This technology is considered one of the most promising for decarbonization of the industry and mobility, and represents a fundamental step into the construction of an efficient and sustainable hydrogen supply chain. Hydrospark will operate in this field, with a vision strongly oriented towards scientific research, industrial scalability and environmental responsibility.
Full press release https://www.brembo.com/en
HHLA tests Hydrogen Straddle Carrier at Container Terminal Tollerort
Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG (HHLA) is testing the first hydrogen-powered straddle carrier at the Port of Hamburg. The vehicle is being used in operations at the testing facility of Container Terminal Tollerort (CTT) as part of the Clean Port & Logistics (CPL) innovation cluster.
The new straddle carrier model from the manufacturer Konecranes is powered by a hydrogen fuel cell and is emission-free. Initial experiences in practice show that the drive system responds quickly and performs handling operations with the same performance as the hybrid version. A particular feature of the vehicle is its modular power system, which can be flexibly adapted to different types of drive systems (hybrid, battery or hydrogen) through simple modifications. The straddle carrier is refuelled at the hydrogen filling station at CTT using a process similar to standard fueling procedures, thereby creating synergies in operations. Supplementary training modules are being developed to ensure that knowledge can be systematically transferred while establishing a skills base over the long term.
Dr. Volker Windeck, Head of Hydrogen Projects: “With this pilot project, we are demonstrating that hydrogen drive systems represent a genuine alternative in the area of heavy-load operations. The technology matches the performance level of conventional drive systems and generates zero emissions. By systematically recording and sharing our experiences in the Clean Port & Logistics cluster, we are creating the basis for climate-friendly transport solutions that benefit not just us but the entire industry.”
Hubert Foltys, Head of Straddle Carrier Business, Konecranes: “We are grateful to partner with HHLA in testing the hydrogen-powered Konecranes Noell Straddle Carrier. Hydrogen is an extremely promising power source for the world, it would give us enormous benefits starting with carbon freedom at the tailpipe. We have been working with HHLA for many years, and it can be said they are one of the world’s most knowledgeable operator of straddle carriers. We are gaining irreplaceable experience and knowledge with them in testing this unit. A hydrogen future is looking more and more possible.“
HHLA works together with more than 40 partner companies from around the world in the Clean Port & Logistics cluster to develop solutions to bring hydrogen-powered heavy goods vehicles and terminal equipment to market quickly and to put in place the measures necessary for their use. The concepts developed by the working groups for operation, safety, maintenance, refuelling and supply are tested and optimised in practical operation in the testing facility at CTT. Their collaboration in CPL helps the companies on the way to decarbonising their processes and making meaningful, climate-friendly investments as they collect the necessary information and practical experience.
The cluster and filling station received funding of approximately three million euros from the Federal Ministry of Transport as part of a national innovation programme for hydrogen and fuel cell technology. The funding guidelines are coordinated by NOW GmbH and implemented by Project Management Jülich (PTJ).
As part of the “Balanced Logistics” sustainability strategy, HHLA is aiming to become climate-neutral throughout the Group by 2040. To achieve this, HHLA has been relying on the electrification of its systems and equipment across Europe for many years. Hydrogen could make a significant contribution to the further decarbonisation of logistics.
Press release https://hhla.de/en
Spanish Enagás Emprende drives green hydrogen and open innovation at Al-Andalus Innovation Venture 2025
Enagás, presented the Hydrogen Technology Observatory (Observatorio TecH₂), a pioneering initiative to identify trends, analyze emerging technologies, and generate strategic knowledge around green hydrogen
The fourth edition of the event in Seville brought together scaleups, corporations, and investors, and featured the participation of Enagás Emprende to highlight how entrepreneurship and collaboration are key to the energy transition and industrial competitiveness.
The Pabellón de la Navegación in Seville hosted on the fourth edition of Al-Andalus Innovation Venture, the benchmark event in southern Spain on scaleups and open innovation, which brought together more than 2,800 attendees, 192 investment funds, and 250 corporations. The event once again positioned Andalusia as a strategic hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and future technologies, with a special focus on green hydrogen and artificial intelligence.
Green hydrogen as a vector for decarbonization
On September 24, Emilio Martínez Gavira, our Head of Open Innovation & Entrepreneurship, spoke on the Startup Stage in the roundtable “Green hydrogen: sectoral integration – opportunities in industry, mobility and energy.” Together with representatives from Cox Energy, Plug Power, Airbus, and HyFive Hydrogen, he discussed the role of renewable hydrogen as a key vector in the decarbonization of strategic sectors.
Emilio emphasized Enagás’ commitment to open innovation as a lever to accelerate the deployment of these technologies, highlighting the importance of collaboration between startups, corporations, and institutions to turn the hydrogen economy into an industrial reality.
The Hydrogen Technology Observatory
That same day, Lola Storch, Innovation and Technology Development Coordinator at Enagás, presented the Hydrogen Technology Observatory (Observatorio TecH₂), a pioneering initiative to identify trends, analyze emerging technologies, and generate strategic knowledge around green hydrogen.
During her presentation, Lola explained how this observatory has become a key tool to drive innovation within the ecosystem, connecting scientific, technological, and industrial stakeholders with the goal of accelerating the development of decarbonization solutions.
Andalusia, a European benchmark in green hydrogen
The celebration of Al-Andalus Innovation Venture coincided with the strong momentum that Andalusia is experiencing in renewable hydrogen: the region already has 14.5 GW of installed renewable power —more than double that of five years ago— and 23 green hydrogen projects underway, which will provide 3.7 GW of electrolysis capacity by 2030, equivalent to 33% of the national target.
These projects will mobilize more than €5.3 billion in investment and generate over 17,700 jobs, consolidating Andalusia as a European leader in decarbonization. In this context, the Andalusian Green Hydrogen Valley stands out as the largest project in Europe, with 2 GW of electrolysis capacity and an annual production of 300,000 tons.
Enagás, as the operator of the Spanish Hydrogen Backbone Network, will play a key role: of the more than 2,600 km of network planned by 2030, 147 km will run through Andalusia, connecting Huelva, Seville, and Córdoba with the national and European networks through the H2med corridor. In addition, the company is working on the conversion of its LNG plant in Huelva into a multi-molecule terminal, capable of handling ammonia, bio-LNG, and exportable hydrogen.
Networking, scaleups and the entrepreneurial ecosystem
In addition to the technical sessions, the event included innovative initiatives such as the Investment Train, organized by Renfe, which allowed investors, corporations (including Enagás), and startups to connect and generate synergies even before arriving in Seville.
Al-Andalus Innovation Venture once again confirmed the strength of the Andalusian entrepreneurial ecosystem and its potential to lead emerging sectors such as green hydrogen. A message aligned with what Emilio Martínez highlighted at the close of the event: “Open innovation is essential to turn the energy transition into a real opportunity for industrial and social transformation.”
Enagás Emprende thus reinforces its commitment to promoting scaleups, startups, and entrepreneurial projects that combine innovation, sustainability, and collaboration, in a framework that, like Andalusia, is consolidating itself as an international benchmark for the future of hydrogen. The event also included the participation of our investee Vira Gas Imaging, with a prominent role highlighted by our partners at Inerco.
Press release https://tinyurl.com/2s4xh39h
CF Industries, Trafigura, and Envalior Announce Shipment of Certified Low-Carbon Ammonia
CF Industries Holdings, Inc. , the world’s largest producer of ammonia, today announced a shipment of certified low-carbon ammonia from its Donaldsonville, Louisiana, facility. Trafigura, a market leader in the global commodities industry, purchased the ammonia for shipment to Envalior, a global leader in Engineering Materials, which intends to use the low-carbon ammonia for the production of low-carbon caprolactam.
Trafigura has loaded 23,500 metric tons of low-carbon ammonia on the 25th of September destined for Antwerp, Belgium. The low-carbon ammonia is certified under the Verified Ammonia Carbon Intensity (VACI) Program to have a significantly lower well-to-gate carbon footprint than conventional natural gas-based ammonia production.
“We are proud to partner with industry leaders Trafigura and Envalior as we work together to develop a low-carbon ammonia supply chain in advance of the implementation of the European Union’s carbon border adjustment mechanism,” said Bert Frost, executive vice president, sales, market development and supply chain, CF Industries Holdings, Inc. “We also are pleased to reach an important milestone for CF Industries by delivering our first low-carbon premium offering to Europe.”
“We are pleased to be delivering our first low-carbon ammonia cargo to Europe. This milestone would not have been possible without the support from CF Industries and Envalior, and we are looking forward to working together on our shared vision of developing low-carbon solutions for industrial use,” said Patricio Norris, Trafigura’s Global Head of Ammonia and LPG. “
“At Envalior, sustainability is not just part of our strategy – it’s part of who we are. This shipment of low-carbon ammonia marks a significant step in our journey to decarbonize our supply chain and deliver climate-resilient solutions. By integrating certified low-carbon feedstocks into our production of caprolactam/ammonium sulphate and downstream into PA6, we are showing our commitment to low-carbon materials and helping our customers meet their environmental goals,” said Thorsten Bredemann, VP Global Marketing & Sales Intermediates.
The start-up of CF Industries’ carbon dioxide (CO2) capture and storage project at its Donaldsonville Complex in July 2025, which has the capacity to sequester up to 2 million metric tons of CO2 per year generated by the ammonia manufacturing process, enabled the production of low-carbon ammonia at the site. CF Industries expects to produce approximately 1.9 million tons of VACI-certified low-carbon ammonia on an annual basis, which can also be upgraded into low-carbon nitrogen fertilizer products.
VACI is a voluntary program developed by The Fertilizer Institute that certifies the greenhouse gas emissions resulting from ammonia production at a specific facility from natural gas well to production gate. The program utilizes a published methodology developed by industry experts to calculate the carbon intensity of the facility’s ammonia production. The data collection and calculations are audited by a third-party verifier.
The shipment of low-carbon ammonia by Trafigura and Envalior represents CF Industries’ second low-carbon ammonia delivery following an earlier sale to a customer in Africa.
Press release https://www.cfindustries.com
The BaseLoad Power Hub arrived in Eemshaven harbour to construct the platform for hydrogen production
With the arrival of the BaseLoad Power Hub in Eemshaven harbour, in the northeast of the Netherlands, a new milestone has been reached for the Dutch energy transition and the development of the regional Groningen Hydrogen Valley. The innovative installation is the first platform for hydrogen production and storage designed and built for offshore conditions. On October 3, Crosswind—a joint venture of Shell and Eneco—handed over the platform to its new owner DOT for further research into hydrogen production.
The BaseLoad Power Hub arrived in Eemshaven harbour on September 27 at 5 PM, after a sea voyage from Italy. Construction of the compact platform for hydrogen production and storage in the Southern European country took over two years. The platform measures 23 by 46 meters (75.5 by 151 feet), weighs 1,800 tonnes (3,968,320 lbs), and combines a 2.5-megawatt electrolyser, 1,200 kilograms (2,646 lbs) of hydrogen storage, and a conversion module with a 1-megawatt battery and a storage capacity of 5 MWh.
In Eemshaven harbour, province of Groningen, a new purpose was found for the hydrogen platform. New owner DOT (Delft Offshore Turbine) will use the BaseLoad Power Hub—renamed Phynix—for further research to gain deeper insights into the production and storage of renewable hydrogen. DOT is seeking collaborations with universities and industries. A Shell Technology team will remain engaged with the project.
Investing in the North of the Netherlands
“We are proud of our contribution to this renewable hydrogen platform,” President Director Shell Netherlands Frans Everts says. “By handing it over to DOT, we promote further knowledge and innovation in the energy transition. It feels right that this project is taking place in the north of the Netherlands and can contribute to the hydrogen economy of the Groningen area.”
“The demand for renewable hydrogen as a carrier of sustainable energy is still small, but once it grows, we as a sector must be ready to scale up quickly and efficiently,” Karen de Lathouder, Chief Operating Officer Assets at Eneco, adds. “That’s why research into hydrogen and its storage is so important. This way, we will be able to use hydrogen as a flexible energy source, helping to reduce grid congestion.”
Future applications of renewable hydrogen
New owner DOT — founded in 2014 — aims to contribute to the development of hydrogen technology in Groningen and the Netherlands. DOT sees Phynix as the ideal place where education, industry, government, and research institutions can collaborate intensively to quickly translate innovation into skills and practical applications.
“Phynix demonstrates how learning, scaling, and training can go hand in hand,” Jan van der Tempel, CEO at DOT, says. “We’re starting on land to build capacity, while developing and sharing knowledge. The final destination is the North Sea, where the installation could contribute to tomorrow’s hydrogen supply.”
Dutch hydrogen economy
The new future of the hydrogen platform is supported by organisations including the Groningen Seaports authority and MissionH2, an advocacy group of companies in the Dutch hydrogen economy.
“Thanks to Eemshaven harbour, Groningen Seaports is a top international player in offshore energy development,” Bart Jan Hoevers, CEO of Groningen Seaports says. “With the arrival of the hydrogen platform, we strengthen our position as a testing ground for innovative hydrogen technology. This project shows how, as an energy port, we can offer the right location in collaboration with regional companies and knowledge partners, directly contributing to the growth of the Hydrogen Valley.”
Press release https://www.crosswindhkn.nl
HD Hyundai Infracore starts performance validation of the 11-liter hydrogen engine on a 38-ton excavator — a global first
HD Hyundai Infracore has officially started performance validation of the 11-liter hydrogen engine (HX12) on a 38-ton excavator — a global first, the company announced in its LinkedIn.
HD Hyundai Infracore aims to achieve performance equivalent to diesel engines while advancing zero-carbon solutions for the construction industry.
Press release https://tinyurl.com/23u2y27y
MCV presents its new C127 FC hydrogen-powered bus at Busworld 2025
MCV (Manufacturing Commercial Vehicles) unveiled the all-new MCV C127FC LE, the highlight of company’s press conference and a true showcase of its innovation in fuel cell technology.
As Eng. Karim Ghabbour, President of MCV, stated during his speech:
“MCV’s goal is to establish itself as one of the world’s leading bus manufacturers, setting new international standards in this highly developed global industry.”
“We strive to provide our customers worldwide with innovative, reliable, and high-quality transportation solutions — all while adhering to international ethical, safety, and environmental standards.”
With this vision, MCV presented the future of mobility through its electric and fuel cell range, including the C127 EV, C107 EV, and the newly revealed C127FC LE.
This 12.1-meter-long bus has an unladen weight of around 14,000 kg and offers seating for 43 passengers, with a total capacity of up to 79 depending on the door layout.
It is powered by a 100 kW hydrogen fuel cell supplied by Ballard Power Systems (with 50 units delivered in early 2025), alongside a central electric motor with a peak output of 410 kW from Voith Group (now operating as Driventic). The vehicle stores approximately 40 kg of hydrogen at 350 bar and includes a 100 kWh battery to enable hybrid operation.
Source https://tinyurl.com/bdf6tk9w
European electrolyser companies have made a joint proposal to EU policymakers
A Call for Pragmatic and Enabling Rules for RFNBO Hydrogen in the Upcoming Omnibus Regulation
Dear President von der Leyen,
As executives in Europe’s electrolysis industry, we fully support the European Union’s vision of RFNBO hydrogen as a cornerstone of the Clean Industrial Deal and a pillar of long-term energy
sovereignty. To realize this ambition, scale up the European electrolyzer industry, and deploy projects across Europe, we urgently need a regulatory shift – one that simplifies overly rigid
frameworks while keeping RFNBO hydrogen at the heart of efforts to build a more resilient energy system.
With the upcoming Omnibus Regulation scheduled for this fall and DG Energy’s study assessing the effectiveness of the RFNBO framework, the European Commission has a timely
and strategic opportunity to adjust the regulatory landscape and introduce necessary flexibility to the rules governing RFNBO hydrogen. From the evolving geopolitical and economic
landscape to the exponential increase in competition for renewable PPAs driven by AI/data centers and growing demand for electrification, a policy adjustment is needed if Europe is
serious about scaling electrolysis deployment and meeting its RFNBO targets.
The reality today: Europe has failed to hit its target for 6 GW of installed electrolysis by 2024. The electrolyzer industry has deployed less than 1 GW in installed projects, even though we have delivered on our commitment to increase manufacturing capacity tenfold—from 1 GW to 10 GW per year.
Meanwhile, projects are close to making final decisions – not for investment, but for cancellation. More than 50 projects have been cancelled in the last 18 months, at least 80% of which were early-stage RFNBO projects. Demand is critical, but it relies on enabling policy. Without it, factories will remain idle, and Europe runs the risk of losing another critical tech industry to global competitors.
While we acknowledge the European Commission’s plan to assess the effectiveness of the RFNBO Delegated Act through a study, urgent amendments are required to specific provisions
that are putting the very survival of the RFNBO sector at immediate risk. We therefore urge the European Commission to ensure that the Omnibus Regulation:
• Keeps RFNBO hydrogen central to Europe’s clean industrial strategy
• Enables a targeted revision of the RFNBO DA and the additionality principle
• Counts subsidized renewable assets as additional
• Extends exemptions on additionality until 2035,
while maintaining the grandfathering clause.
In addition, the European Commission’s study on the effectiveness of the RFNBO DA should:
• Conduct a thorough, data-driven assessment of the liquidity in the renewable PPA market and its ability to offer competitive PPAs to future RFNBO producers before transitioning to more granular time-matching requirements.
• Consider adopting weekly, monthly, or daily matching instead of strictly hourly matching.
If RFNBO hydrogen is to reach meaningful scale, the stringent rules around additionality, spatial, and temporal correlation must be simplified. If these rules remain unchanged, only a handful of small projects will reach final investment decision (FID).
The three pillars of the RFNBO Delegated Act are especially challenging for larger projects, which are vital for achieving sufficient scale and driving down the levelized cost of hydrogen.
With the current framework, the emerging hydrogen and electrolyzer industry – and RFNBO hydrogen pricing – carry the burden of renewable energy build-out and grid stability services
without being adequately compensated for these indirect benefits.
Europe cannot afford a regulatory structure that looks good on paper but fails to enable real-world deployment. Our companies have already invested and are ready to scale up further, but
we need legislation that empowers, rather than impedes, the realization of the Clean Industrial Deal and our resilience and decarbonization goals.
It’s equally crucial to stimulate demand for RFNBO hydrogen within the EU, particularly by fully incorporating RED III into national law.
The Omnibus Regulation and DG Energy’s study are the right tools, at the right time, to move Europe from ambition to action and to advance the changes needed to achieve the scale required to meet our climate targets.
Sincerely, Håkon Volldal President & CEO Nel Hydrogen, Anne-Laure de Chammard Member of the Executive Board, Siemens Energy AG, Nils Aldag CEO Sunfire,Kim Hedegaard, CEO PtX
TOPSOE
Source https://tinyurl.com/ysvvdtzw
Daimler Truck presents a prototype of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck at European Hydrogen Week
Daimler Truck has presented a prototype of the next-generation Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck at European Hydrogen Week in Brussels, the organisers of forum announced.
The Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck prototype is a glimpse into the future of sustainable transportation. The small series of 100 fuel cell trucks will be assembled at the Mercedes-Benz Trucks plant in Germany and is scheduled to be deployed at various customer sites from the end of 2026 onwards. The project is funded within the framework of the European Union’s IPCEI (Important Project of Common European Interest) Hydrogen program.
Photo of #EUH2Week2025 (Daimler Truck’s President and CEO Karin Rådström on photo)
Source https://tinyurl.com/5bkh2ef8
Global Hydrogen Mobility Alliance Calls for Urgent Action to Secure Clean, Competitive and Resilient Transport in Europe
GHMA unveiled its Market Activation Strategy, setting out a clear path to move hydrogen mobility
The Global Hydrogen Mobility Alliance (GHMA), – a coalition of leading transport, energy, and industrial players investing in Europe, unveiled its Market Activation Strategy, setting out a clear path to move hydrogen mobility from pilot projects to mass deployment in order to deliver clean, competitive and resilient transport future for Europe.
The new report by the Alliance members highlights that hydrogen mobility holds strategic value for Europe as a complement to battery electrification, but strategies to date, especially for heavy-duty, have not activated the market or overcome the initial cost hurdle. Contrasting Europe’s progress with quickly moving global markets, the report warns that without urgent action, Europe risks falling behind in the global race – locked in high costs, low utilisation, and slow adoption. To address the challenge, the report identifies the specific tipping points that must be reached for hydrogen mobility to become self-sustaining and outlines the key levers industry and policymakers should pull to unlock scale.
Specifically, the Alliance highlights five urgent actions to unlock hydrogen mobility in Europe:
• Deploy hydrogen where it adds the most value in the near term: Prioritise heavy- duty trucks as the first and critical segment to open at scale, then expand to buses, taxis, and corridors, with focused deployments in key demand hubs near industrial basins where large-scale, cost-competitive hydrogen sources already exist.
Close the cost gap with diesel: An optimised hydrogen supply chain can already deliver costs of €8-10/kg at the pump, with reductions possible as scale increases. Targeted interventions are needed to support hydrogen truck purchases, guarantee demand through take-or-pay contracts, and enable competitive hydrogen at the pump. Reaching parity needs both competitive truck pricing and pump price progress with a transition as early as possible to liquid hydrogen.
• Build large-scale refuelling stations: Commit to a capacity of at least 1t/day per station, with increased support for over 2t/day, with fully synchronised truck fleet roll- outs to load stations quickly and secure utilisation above 50 percent ensuring deployment alongside fleets to maximise rapid station utilisation.
•Use available, cost-competitive hydrogen to activate markets: Decouple vehicle and infrastructure ramp up from the decarbonization of hydrogen production, while mandating a clear transition to fully decarbonized hydrogen within fixed timelines. A similar approach has allowed the ramp up of battery electric vehicles whilst decarbonizing electricity production in parallel. Also, such a decoupled approach is proving successful in markets such as China and Korea.
Align industry and policy on scaling: Standardise regulations, accelerate permitting, and ensure subsidies reward ecosystems that can reach critical mass while putting in place pragmatic public support schemes backing both hydrogen refuelling infrastructure investment and vehicle purchases, with minimal initial constraints – prioritising viable business cases for customers and investors.
The activation phase should deploy a few thousand heavy-duty trucks by 2030 across European hubs. This scale will enable tipping points in supply chain economics, with hydrogen trending towards 6 €/kg in favourable regions, and reductions in truck production costs, and thus open the way to faster deployment in the 2030s and support Europe’s decarbonization goals.
The Market Activation Strategy unveiled at EU Hydrogen Week (#EUH2Week2025 )on 30 September, during a high-level panel featuring Peter Mackey (Air Liquide), Manfred Schuckert (Daimler Truck), Jürgen Guldner (BMW), Niki Berger, (Bosch), and Antoine Tournand, (TotalEnergies), moderated by Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO of Hydrogen Europe.
Press release https://tinyurl.com/nhb3m4r9
BMW Group Plant Leipzig paves the way for hydrogen pipeline link – a world first in car production
BMW Group Plant Leipzig is planning a hydrogen pipeline link – paving the way for it to become the first car plant in the world to receive hydrogen via a pipeline. Contracts have now been signed with MITNETZ GAS GmbH and ONTRAS Gastransport GmbH. The approx. 2-kilometre-long link will be constructed by MITNETZ GAS and incorporate a gas pressure and measurement system, eventually connecting the plant to the future core hydrogen network. BMW and ONTRAS are in the process of agreeing the appropriate connection to the hydrogen grid. The link is expected to start delivering hydrogen to the plant in mid-2027.
Once the pipeline is in place, Plant Leipzig will no longer need hydrogen deliveries by truck, in cylinders. “With supplies coming in via the pipeline, we will be able to use hydrogen in completely new ways – especially for our most energy-intensive processes, such as our curing ovens in the paintshop,” says Petra Peterhänsel, Director of BMW Group Plant Leipzig.
In October 2022 Plant Leipzig took a fuel-flexible burner on stream in its paintshop – another world first in automotive production. Today, it operates a total of eleven such bivalent burners, powered flexibly by gas or hydrogen.
In 2013 Leipzig also introduced hydrogen fuel cell-powered forklifts and tug trains and now operates an intralogistics fleet comprising more than 230 vehicles of this kind – the largest in Europe. They refuel at nine hydrogen refuelling stations located within the plant’s halls.
The core hydrogen network is a nationwide infrastructure project that will consist of approx. 9,000 kilometres of hydrogen pipes. It will go on stream in stages, reaching full operation by 2032 and connecting Germany to the transregional hydrogen network.
Press release https://www.press.bmwgroup.com/global
100% green hydrogen at the Hofolding filling station of Hy2B Wasserstoff
“1 October 2025, we were able to deliver 100% green hydrogen with RFNBO quality (Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin), produced for the grid at the Pfeffenhausen electrolyser, to the Hofolding filling station at Martin Geldhauser’s depot and fill a Munich Transport Association (MVV) bus with RFNBO”, the Hy2B Wasserstoff GmbH announced in its LinkedIn. The first trailer weighing 1,200 kilograms with green hydrogen was delivered at station.
“From now on, the buses of the Munich district in the
MVV and all other vehicles that are refuelled at the Hy2B Wasserstoff GmbH filling station in Hofolding will run on 100%
RFNBO green hydrogen from regional production.
A milestone for Hy2B Wasserstoff GmbH, its shareholders and partners”.
Source https://tinyurl.com/mr4yk9d6
COOLERGY to launch test trials of hydrogen locomotive prototype in Estonia
The Innovation Forum 2025, dedicated to the development of hydrogen industry technologies, has kicked off in Brussels. COOLERGY CEO Kirill Lyats spoke at the forum, announcing that his company will launch test trials of a hydrogen-powered shunting locomotive prototype at the Tapa railway depot (Tapa raudteejaam) in Estonia in November 2025.
More details in the video: https://youtu.be/rsqk-rcOk9Q?si=FKrcyTMqTcputO3y
The Innovation Forum 2025, dedicated to the development of hydrogen industry technologies, has kicked off in Brussels
The first panel brought together representatives of companies and organisations conducting research and development in the industry. Among them were:
Pere Margalef Valldeperez, Director of Decarbonisation Technologies, SNAM
Nicolas Brahy, General Counsel, Public Affairs and ESG Director, Hy24
Tom Houghton, Partner, ERM
Johanna Leisling, VP Commercial, Hydropulse (part of ITM group)
Julie Mougin, Deputy Director for Hydrogen Technologies, CEA – DES/LITEN
Alice Ruczinski, Director of Public Funding, Lhyfe
Innovation Forum 2025 will take place on 2-3 October in Brussels, at the Thon Hotel EU.
Photo of Hydrogenwire.com
European Hydrogen Week 2025 brought together hydrogen industry leaders
The High-Level Policy Conference of European Hydrogen week covered topics such as , efuels, eSAF and clean aviation, the European Hydrogen Bank, lead markets, global partnerships and competitiveness. EVP of the European Commission Teresa Ribera and Belgian Minister Jean-Luc Crucke have been among speakers.
The panel entitled “Building and Sustaining Lead Markets in Europe,” which took place on October 1, featured speakers including:
KIM HEDEGAARD, CEO for Power-to-X, Topsoe
JONATHAN WEBER, Chief Transformation Officer, SaarStahl
VIBEKE RASMUSSEN, SVP Product Management and Certification, Yara Clean Ammonia
TOMÁS MALANGO, Director of Renewable Fuels and Circular Economy, Repsol
ANNA MASCOLO, EVP Low Carbon Solutions, Shell
TOM SMEENK, EVP Growth, VTTI
The B2B Forum was dedicated to the topic of growth of Hydrogen valleys and how they can create powerful synergies between regions and companies; forum also host H2UB in a session where they told more about their success stories and learnings of hydrogen start-ups.
The panel “Zero-emission takeoff: can hydrogen and eSAF deliver clean aviation?” included the following speakers:
- TIMOTHY FENOULHET, Team leader Green Deal, Sec Gen, European Commission
- MARKUS EXENBERGER, Executive Director, H2Global Stiftung
- JAN TOSCHKA, CEO, Zaffra
- JASON MORTIMER, Senior Vice President, Global Commercial, Electric Hydrogen.
European Hydrogen Week takes place in Brussels from September 29 to October 3.
Industry leaders gather to demand resilience through new European Hydrogen Strategy
As the leaders and stakeholders of the hydrogen sector gather for the start of the European Hydrogen Week, a clear, unified message will cut through the noise: Hydrogen is Europe’s path to resilience.
Hydrogen is not just a climate instrument – it is a resilience instrument. It enables Europe to store renewable energy, secure industrial competitiveness, and reduce dependence on external suppliers. For this reason, the European Hydrogen Week 2025 will highlight the importance of a hydrogen-based resilience strategy to an autonomous Europe.
In order to achieve this, four strategic pillars are necessary:
1. Regulatory simplification and investment security
“Resilience begins with trust: investors need clear, simple, and lasting rules.” – Werner Ponikwar, CEO, thyssenkrupp nucera
2. Lead markets to drive demand
“Resilience requires markets: Europe should seize this opportunity and create demand in core industries.” – Sopna Sury, Chair, Hydrogen Europe & COO Hydrogen, RWE Generation
3. Mobility and infrastructure
“Resilience requires infrastructure: Europe must now scale pilot projects along the entire value chain, from hydrogen production to transport and refueling stations.” – Karin Rådström, CEO, Daimler Truck
4. Resilience strategy and energy sovereignty
“Resilience is sovereignty: Europe must produce, store, and refine much of its own fuels while strengthening strategic partnerships to diversify its energy imports.” – Jorgo Chatzimarkakis, CEO, Hydrogen Europe
Together, these four pillars must form the foundation of a new European Hydrogen Strategy focused on Resilience First. We cannot wait until the end of 2026 to adopt this strategy. The European Court of Auditors report recommended a new strategy by end of 2025; it should be launched in early 2026 latest, with Cyprus and Ireland using their Presidencies to ensure adoption. Urgent action is required now if we want to enable a sustainable, resilient, and decarbonised economy.
By simplifying the rules, creating lead markets, and securing funding, in line with the recommendations of the Draghi report, we can and will build sovereignty in a sustainable Europe.
Resilience is not optional. It is Europe’s strategic imperative.
PowerCell to equip world’s first hydrogen-powered bulk carriers
PowerCell Group has secured the contract to supply the fuel cell systems for two hydrogen-powered bulk carriers to be built by GMI Rederi AS. The contract, valued at just over SEK 40 million, includes 14 Marine System 225 units, providing +3 MW of power, as well as engineering services. Deliveries are scheduled for 2026 – 2027.
This order continues the strong momentum of the Marine System 225, now being deployed across an even wider range of applications in the maritime sector. With bulk carriers added to the portfolio, the system is demonstrating its flexibility and competitiveness for demanding use cases across shipping.
Each of the two vessels will be fitted with seven Marine System 225 units, enabling them to operate entirely without emissions by replacing fossil fuels with renewable hydrogen. At 85 meters long with a deadweight capacity of 4,000 tons, the vessels will be the first hydrogen-powered bulk carriers in the world when launched in early 2027.
GMI Rederi is developing the vessels, while the engineering, integration and certification process for the hydrogen system will be handled by eCap Marine, a German ship integrator specialising in green propulsion solutions. The project has received support from the Norwegian government’s Enova fund and the NOx Fund, and is part of the Green Shipping Programme, a public–private collaboration aimed at accelerating green maritime innovation.
Stig Kallestad, Marine Director at PowerCell Group, said:
“This project shows just how far the Marine System 225 has come in proving itself as a reliable and competitive solution across shipping segments. Bulk carriers are demanding applications, and the fact that our technology is chosen here demonstrates that hydrogen fuel cells are no longer just pilots, they are real solutions for real operations.”
Richard Berkling, CEO of PowerCell Group, added:
“We continue to expand the use of our Marine System 225, and with GMI Rederi we are now moving into bulk carriers, a new and important segment in shipping. Regulatory frameworks such as ETS trading and IMO requirements are pushing the break-even point in favour of hydrogen fuel cells, making them a competitive and future-ready choice for operators. This is not only about two ships; it is about setting a new standard for zero-emission maritime transport.”
Torstein Holsvik, CEO at GMI Rederi, commented:
“Existing bulk carriers are outdated, and we needed to think completely anew. After careful evaluation of technology maturity, fuel availability, and cost-effectiveness, we chose compressed hydrogen with fuel cells as the most future-ready solution.”
With this order, PowerCell further strengthens its position as a leading supplier of fuel cell solutions for hard-to-abate sectors such as marine, aviation, and power generation, delivering real projects that accelerate the transition to sustainable energy.
Press release https://powercellgroup.com/press-releases/powercell-to-equip-worlds-first-hydrogen-powered-bulk-carriers/
Repsol to build its first large-scale renewable hydrogen plant in Cartagena
Repsol continues to make solid progress in its strategic plan and has given the green light to its first large electrolyzer, with 100 MW of capacity, at the company’s industrial complex in Cartagena in eastern Spain. The facility will be able to produce up to 15,000 tons of renewable hydrogen per year, which the company will use as feedstock to manufacture essential products with a lower carbon footprint, marking a significant step forward in its roadmap to replace conventional hydrogen with renewable hydrogen at its industrial sites.
The project has been recognized by the European Commission and the Government of Spain as strategic and of common European interest (IPCEI) and will receive €155 million through the Spanish Institute for the Diversification and Saving of Energy (IDAE).
Given its scale, the development of this electrolyzer represents a technological challenge led by Repsol, in collaboration with Enagas Renovable, which holds a 25% stake in the project. With an investment of over €300 million, it will generate around 900 jobs-direct, indirect, and induced- through the different phases of the project. The electrolyzer alone will avoid the emission of up to 167,000 tons of CO2 per year, an impact equivalent to two-thirds of the entire fleet of pure electric vehicles in Spain in 2024.
The plant is expected to be operational in 2029, representing a milestone for the Hydrogen Valley of the Region of Murcia, one of Spain’s most important regional initiatives. The goal is to create the most efficient ecosystem possible, aligning production capacity with the needs of industry. The project also includes the possibility that, in the future, the renewable hydrogen can be fed into the natural gas network and the Spanish Hydrogen Backbone.
Repsol is the largest producer and consumer of hydrogen on the Iberian Peninsula, concentrating 60% of national production and accounting for 4% of the hydrogen consumed in Europe. At present, the company can produce around 360,000 tons of hydrogen per year at its industrial complexes.
For its part, Enagás Renovable operates as an independent energy producer specializing in renewable gases and decarbonization initiatives. Its current portfolio in Spain includes 20 projects under development, focused on renewable hydrogen and biomethane.
Press release https://tinyurl.com/2epmxxks
Honda and Astrobotic Establish Joint Development Agreement to Explore Scalable Lunar Power Solutions
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and Astrobotic Technology, Inc. announced a joint development agreement aimed at developing a scalable and integrated power solution for sustained lunar surface missions. The joint feasibility study will explore how the Honda regenerative fuel cell (RFC) system can be integrated with Astrobotic’s Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT) and LunaGrid service to provide continuous power, even during prolonged periods of darkness on the Moon.
American Honda Motor Co., Inc. and Astrobotic Technology, Inc. have established a joint development agreement to explore scalable lunar power solutions.
Concept rendering of a scalable lunar power solution integrating the Honda regenerative fuel cell system with Astrobotic’s Vertical Solar Array Technology
The Honda RFC system, known as a circulative renewable energy system, is designed to continuously produce oxygen, hydrogen, and electricity using solar energy and water. During the lunar day1, the RFC system stores solar power as hydrogen and converts it into electricity during the lunar night2. After generating electricity, the only byproduct of the fuel cell is water, which is recycled into the Honda high-pressure water electrolysis system to create a closed-loop energy cycle.
Astrobotic is creating a scalable power infrastructure service, called LunaGrid, designed to supply sustained lunar surface power for a wide range of lunar missions and customers. A key component of LunaGrid is the Astrobotic VSAT, a solar-powered system that is deployable, self-leveling, and capable of sun tracking for optimal energy capture. Astrobotic is developing a 10 kW VSAT system, along with the Extra-Large Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT-XL), which would generate 50 kW of power to support the growing power requirements of planned lunar missions.
Feasibility Study Will Integrate the Honda RFC and Astrobotic VSAT Systems
Honda and Astrobotic plan to conduct a feasibility study that will focus on three key objectives:
- Conducting detailed illumination studies to assess power generation and storage requirements at different sites where the LunaGrid system will be deployed
- Evaluating the scalability of the Honda RFC system for LunaGrid’s use
- Assessing hardware and software integration with the Honda RFC and Astrobotic VSAT to define RFC system requirements that ensure reliable operation in future deployments
A key advantage of the Honda regenerative fuel cell system is its ability to provide continuous power during the lunar night. By integrating the Honda RFC with the Astrobotic VSAT, the combined system could significantly extend power availability beyond the lunar night, which would enable expanded mission capabilities, support a sustained human presence on the Moon, advance lunar surface infrastructure development and power future commercial industries.
During the study, Honda and Astrobotic will also simulate one-year solar illumination profiles at various lunar South Pole sites using both the Astrobotic 10 kW and 50 kW VSAT systems. These simulated illumination profiles will determine how much sunlight the VSAT solar panels will receive on the lunar surface to power the water electrolysis during the day, enabling the RFC system to convert the stored hydrogen into electricity throughout the night. Based on the modeled solar energy production, Honda will size its regenerative fuel cell system to meet the energy storage needs of various lunar mission scenarios.
Perspectives from Honda and Astrobotic Leaders
Derek Adelman, chief engineer, Space Development Division, American Honda Motor Co., Inc.:
“The collaboration between Honda and Astrobotic marks a pivotal step toward creating scalable power solutions for long-term lunar surface missions. Powered by core Honda technologies, our regenerative fuel cell system is designed to provide efficient energy storage and regeneration to support sustained human life on the Moon as well as advance zero-emission applications on Earth.”
Bobby Rolley, Astrobotic’s Lunar Power Systems Architect:
“Astrobotic’s LunaGrid is being developed to deliver reliable, continuous power for lunar surface missions, revolutionizing the economics of exploration. By enabling survival through the harsh lunar night and extending mission durations from days to years, LunaGrid will significantly boost mission performance and data return per dollar invested. Our collaboration with Honda is a major move in this vision, as their scalable energy storage technology will enhance both LunaGrid and our Vertical Solar Array Technology (VSAT), expanding our overall power generation and storage capabilities.”
Press release https://tinyurl.com/tvc7t935
OMV lays the foundation stone for one of the largest electrolysis plants for green hydrogen in Europe
- The planned 140 MW plant will be the largest in Austria, in South-Eastern Europe and among the five largest in Europe
- Annual production of 23,000 tons of green hydrogen will make a significant contribution to decarbonization of the industrial processes at the OMV refinery in Schwechat
- Innovative partnership with consortium of OMV, Siemens Energy, and STRABAG
OMV is setting another milestone on the road toward a climate-neutral energy future by laying the foundation stone for one of the largest electrolysis plants for green hydrogen in Europe. The 140 MW plant in Bruck an der Leitha is scheduled to go into operation at the end of 2027. OMV will produce up to 23,000 tons of hydrogen annually in future using renewable energy from wind, solar, and hydropower, making a significant contribution toward reducing the company’s carbon emissions.
The new plant will enable the local production of green hydrogen and thus significantly increase the sustainability of the production processes, as well as the fuel and chemical products at the OMV refinery in Schwechat. OMV expects this to result in an annual reduction of up to 150,000 tons of carbon emissions* – i.e., around 10 percent of the refinery’s current direct, production-related emissions.
Alfred Stern, Chairman of the Executive Board and CEO of OMV: “The construction of our state-of-the-art plant for green hydrogen is a clear signal for the energy transition. We are creating an integrated ecosystem based on the use of green hydrogen – supported by technological innovation, modern infrastructure, political support, and strong partnerships. Green hydrogen is a key component of our Strategy 2030 as a means of decarbonising our fuel production and a key to OMV’s responsible transformation. With this project, we are reaffirming our long-term commitment to sustainable energy solutions and strengthening our role as a pioneer in the development and supply of green hydrogen.”
OMV is investing a sum in the mid-hundreds of millions of euros in the plant. The company will construct a hydrogen pipeline around 22 kilometers long as part of this investment, connecting the electrolysis plant in Bruck an der Leitha directly to the refinery in Schwechat. The operating permit and the building permit have already been granted for this.
The project was assessed positively for funding by the European Hydrogen Bank. The funding agreement is currently being finalized in cooperation with the Austrian promotional bank Austria Wirtschaftsservice GmbH (aws), which acts as the national processing office for the European Hydrogen Bank’s funding program. A contract with the Austrian Hydrogen Bank is expected to be signed by the end of 2025. The plant is scheduled to go into operation at the end of 2027, subject to the funding approval.
The project underlines OMV’s pioneering position in green hydrogen production in the refinery sector in Europe. The company already operates a 10 MW electrolyzer in Austria. The planned large-scale plant in Bruck an der Leitha with an electrolyser size of 140 MW will be the largest of its kind in Austria, in South-Eastern Europe and one of the five largest in Europe.
Strong partnerships drive progress
For implementation of this project, OMV is relying on proven partners: Siemens Energy will bring extensive expertise in electrolysis technology and plant construction, while STRABAG will be responsible for the entire civil construction work. The plant will be constructed under an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, Construction) contract, that OMV has awarded to the consortium led by Siemens Energy which is responsible for the complete planning, procurement, and construction of the plant. Siemens Energy will take over the overall technical planning of the plant and will be supplying and implementing key components such as electrolysis stacks, transformers, rectifiers, and compressors, which are used to split water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy.
Juha Pankakoski, Extended Board Member of Siemens Energy: “As consortium leader, we are pleased to be working with OMV and STRABAG to build one of Europe’s largest electrolysis plants. Our technology enables the efficient and scalable production of green hydrogen as an important energy source of the future. Projects like this provide important impetus for the development of the hydrogen market.”
STRABAG will bring extensive expertise in the planning and construction of industrial infrastructure. In addition to the groundwork, the company will be responsible for constructing all buildings on the site.
Stefan Kratochwill, CEO of STRABAG: “Green hydrogen can play a crucial role in the energy system of the future. This electrolysis plant is a milestone on the road toward more sustainable mobility. Together with Siemens Energy, we are proud to be building one of the largest plants in Europe for OMV and to be showcasing our expertise in high-tech buildings. These projects show that nothing ventured, nothing gained, and we can only shape the future of energy by taking bold steps.”
Press release https://www.omv.com/en
Isuzu and Toyota to Jointly Develop Next-Generation Fuel Cell Route Bus
Isuzu Motors Limited (Isuzu) and Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) announced an agreement to jointly develop next-generation fuel cell (FC) route buses for commercialization. Production is scheduled to begin in fiscal year 2026 (April 2026-March 2027) at the Utsunomiya Plant (Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture) of J-Bus, Ltd. (J-Bus), an equal joint venture between Isuzu and Hino Motors, Ltd. (Hino).
The vehicle will be based on the flat-floor battery electric route bus platform planned, developed, and designed by Isuzu and manufactured by J-Bus. Isuzu and Hino―who have been collaborating in the bus segment since 2002―launched this platform in fiscal year 2024. It will be combined with an FC system developed by Toyota. As part of their efforts to realize zero-emission vehicles, Isuzu and Toyota are jointly developing the next-generation FC bus, seeking to reduce costs by standardizing BEV and FCEV parts.
Expanding the range of carbon neutral options beyond battery electric buses, Isuzu is working to commercialize the next-generation FC route bus as a new technology. Toyota positions hydrogen as an important energy source in the pursuit of carbon neutrality and is advancing various initiatives in producing, transporting, storing, and using hydrogen in collaboration with a wide range of partners across industries. Together, the two companies will work with local governments and businesses in various regions―including those designated by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in May 2025 as Priority Regions for Promoting the Deployment of Fuel-Cell Commercial Vehicles―to contribute to the steady reduction of CO2 emissions by expanding the use of next-generation FC route buses.
Press release https://global.toyota/en/newsroom/corporate/43355086.html
