Japan’s First Hydrogen-From-SOE Pilot Launches at Thermal Power Station in Nagoya
Photo: Jera
JERA and DENSO kick off Japan’s first hydrogen production trial using solid oxide electrolysis (SOE) at a thermal power plant.
Project leverages waste heat and targets 80% efficiency as both companies eye global hydrogen and ammonia supply chains.
Japanese utility giant JERA has started producing hydrogen at its Shin-Nagoya thermal power station using a solid oxide electrolyser (SOE) supplied by automotive parts manufacturer DENSO. The pilot marks the first time in Japan that hydrogen is being produced from high-temperature electrolysis at a thermal power plant, with both companies aiming to validate performance under real-world conditions and push forward on practical deployment.
The 200kW SOE unit, developed by DENSO — which is partly owned by Toyota — uses high-temperature steam generated from waste heat at the gas-fired power station to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. According to the companies, the system offers electrolysis efficiencies of up to 80%, making it highly competitive in reducing electricity-related costs associated with green hydrogen production. “The efficiency of electrolysis is very high, up to about eighty percent, and it is said that it can reduce the cost of electricity when producing hydrogen,” they stated.
The demonstration is part of a broader push by both firms to accelerate Japan’s domestic hydrogen capabilities and position themselves in the international value chain. “Through the joint experiments, JERA will acquire knowledge and data related to operation, and DENSO will promote the development of equipment technology and aim to put it into practical use,” the companies said. Looking ahead, they intend to contribute to building “a global supply chain for hydrogen and ammonia and create an environment where hydrogen can be utilized.