Air Liquide, a global front-runner in gases, technologies, and services for industry and health, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with ENEOS Corporation, Japan’s leading energy company, to work on accelerating the development of low-carbon hydrogen in Japan.
This collaboration will leverage Air Liquide’s extensive experience in the hydrogen value chain domain. The company’s expertise spans all aspects of the field, including production, liquefaction, transportation, storage, distribution, and utilization, as well as know-how in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS) technologies.
ENEOS, being the largest energy company in Japan, will provide the partnership with robust energy infrastructure and a strong national market position. The advantage of having a developed operational network will allow for a quicker and smoother energy transition in the country, leading to more sustainable and efficient energy practices.
Looking to fortify the complete value chain of low-carbon hydrogen, Air Liquide and ENEOS will aim to develop both upstream and downstream improvements.
Upstream, the focus will be on exploring and enhancing the production of low-carbon hydrogen through the utilization of both CCUS and electrolysis technologies. Additionally, the partners will evaluate the possibilities of creating an international network for the supply of liquid hydrogen in order to meet the demand in Japan.
Relevant: Japanese Giant Eneos Buys Petra Nova To Gain Carbon Expertise
Downstream, the collaboration will entail joint initiatives to advance hydrogen mobility in Japan, including the establishment of a hydrogen refueling station infrastructure. The two partners will also explore opportunities for collaboration in innovation along the hydrogen supply chain, ensuring the efficient and reliable distribution of hydrogen to end-users.
In a recent press release, representatives from both companies expressed enthusiasm over the collaboration, pointing out that this partnership will bring two sector leaders together with the aim of accelerating decarbonization efforts in Japan.
Both partners are eager to cooperate and utilize their strengths in order to aid the shift towards a more sustainable energy environment within the country and potentially even further.
Read more: Japan Sets Carbon Capture Target Of 6 To 12 Million Tons By 2030
