New Zealand’s first green hydrogen plant opens | Think global warming

The first green hydrogen plant in New Zealand has officially started production. The 1.5 MW Green Hydrogen Plant, located in Taupo, was established by Halcyon Power and uses electricity generated by the nearby Mokai Geothermal Power Station. Halcien Power is a 50/50 joint venture Dwarobagi Foundation And Obayashi Corporation, based in Japan.

According to Halcyon Power Project Manager Aya Inakaki, the operation of the plant is now complete. Post-commissioning monitoring should be conducted and completed by the end of 2021.

The Green Hydrogen plant has been in development since 2018 and began construction in 2020. According to Tuaropaki CEO Steve Murray, the plant will begin selling hydrogen wholesale domestically in January 2022 and is expected to produce about 180 tonnes in its first year. The long-term goal is for the plant to contribute to a complete hydrogen supply chain that includes transportation, storage and refueling.

Murray explained that green hydrogen provides a more sustainable alternative not only to fossil fuels, but also to hydrogen derived from coal for industrial processes. “Halcien Power is committed to upholding our values ​​such as caring for our environment and protecting the research and development of alternative renewable energy.”

Murray added, “While helping to decorbonize New Zealand, the project opens up the country’s potential for exporting hydrogen and hydrogen – related intellectual property as transport fuels.”

Gina Rungi, President of Tuaropaki, noted that the Green Hydrogen plant is a significant step towards achieving New Zealand’s goal of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

In a pre-recorded video, Obayashi Corporation President Kenji Hasua said, “Together with Dwarobaki, we will explore the construction of a hydrogen supply chain in New Zealand that includes production, transportation and utilization, and will contribute to the country’s greenery.

Fountain: Scoop