S&P Global – Germany’s Enapter wins AEM electrolyzer order for South Korea pilot project 

One of several technologies used  12.5 MW renewable H2 pilot plant  1,000 mt/yr renewable H2 output seen  Germany’s Enapter and partner YEST have received an order from South Korea for two anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzers for a total 2

January 30, 2023

  • One of several technologies used 
  • 12.5 MW renewable H2 pilot plant 
  • 1,000 mt/yr renewable H2 output seen 

Germany’s Enapter and partner YEST have received an order from South Korea for two anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolyzers for a total 2 MW to be tested alongside other technologies in a pilot project, the manufacturer said Jan. 30.

The electrolyzers will be used in a 12.5 MW renewable hydrogen pilot project in South Korea’s Jeju Island, Enapter said. 

“This electrolyser can supply around 450 kg of green hydrogen per day,” Enapter said. “By using several units in parallel, production can be expanded on an industrial scale.” 

AEM electrolysers allow hydrogen and oxygen to be produced under pressure of 35 bar and one bar respectively. 

The pressure difference ensures a hydrogen purity of 99.9% and is a cost efficient alternative to more established electrolysis technologies, Enapter says. 

The systems supplied are expected to produce more than 1,000 metric tonnes of renewable hydrogen per year. 

The project had government support of Won 62 billion ($43.3 million), Enapter said. 

The AEMs are to be installed by Korea-based YEST. 

In January 2019 Korea announced a Hydrogen Economy Roadmap outlining a target of 6.2 million fuel cell EVs and at least 1,200 refilling stations by 2040, according to an IEA report. 

The roadmap also outlined an objective to supply 15 GW of fuel cell capacity for power generation by 2040. 

Platts, a part of S&P Global Commodity Insights assessed Japan hydrogen produced via PEM electrolysis at $8.34/kg Jan. 30, down 14% month-on-month. 

It assessed Queensland hydrogen produced via PEM electrolysis (including capex) at $6.4/kg Jan. 27, up 42% month-on-month.

Written by Ruchira Singh

Source: S&P Global