SoCalGas, H2U Technologies to test lower-cost PEM electrolyser

Southern California Gas Co, or SoCalGas, has teamed up with H2U Technologies Inc to undertake demonstration testing of a new type of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysers that are expected to cut equipment cost in half.

The particular device is called Gramme 50 and is designed to be built in 200-kW blocks. These can be stacked to produce up to 80 kg of green hydrogen a day and power as many as 80 homes in a microgrid.

Early analysis by H2U Technologies shows that the cost target of the new electrolyser is half that of existing PEM devices, while the total cost of ownership over its life is estimated to be 75% less.

The research to be conducted by the two companies will include validation studies on the performance of new non-precious metal catalysts and testing methods and materials that could lower production costs.

The Los Angeles-based gas distribution utility recently pledged to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions in its operations and delivery of energy by 2045.

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