JERA Co., Inc. and DENSO CORPORATION announced on September 25, 2025, that they have begun demonstration testing of hydrogen production at JERA's Shin-Nagoya Thermal Power Station in Nagoya, Aichi. The testing utilizes SOEC water electrolysis systems developed by DENSO with an electrolysis power of 200kW, marking Japan's first demonstration of this technology at a thermal power station.

Technology and Development Background

The demonstration employs Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC) technology, which operates at high temperatures using a ceramic membrane as an electrolyte to electrolyze steam and produce hydrogen. SOECs achieve exceptionally high electrolysis efficiency of up to around 80% and offer the advantage of using less electricity than other water electrolysis methods, such as PEM and alkaline systems.

JERA and DENSO began jointly developing high-efficiency hydrogen generation technology using SOECs developed by DENSO in August 2024. Since then, the companies have moved forward with preparations for hydrogen production demonstration testing, culminating in the launch of Japan's first demonstration testing at a thermal power station.

Technical Objectives and Innovation

The demonstration testing aims to achieve hydrogen production with the world's highest-level electrolysis efficiency by applying DENSO's heat-management technology to minimize the heat discharged by the SOECs. This approach represents a significant advancement in hydrogen production efficiency at industrial scale. Based on the results of the demonstration testing, the companies aim to scale up the electrolysis power from the current 200kW to several thousand kW as they accelerate efforts to drive the practical application of SOEC next-generation fuel production systems.

Strategic Goals and Environmental Impact

Hydrogen is being considered for use in a variety of applications, including power generation, transportation, and industry, because it emits no CO2 when burned. The gas is expected to play a key role in achieving a carbon-neutral society, making this demonstration particularly significant for decarbonization efforts. JERA aims to achieve net-zero CO2 emissions from its domestic and international operations by 2050.

The company is building a hydrogen and ammonia supply chain and pursuing the development of zero-emissions thermal power generation that emits no CO2 during power generation. DENSO is applying technologies it has nurtured in the mobility field to further advance development aimed at hydrogen utilization. Through this joint demonstration testing, both companies will work towards the early establishment of a global supply chain for green hydrogen and ammonia, contributing to the development of solutions for global decarbonization and energy issues.

The demonstration testing facilities have been installed at JERA's Shin-Nagoya Thermal Power Station, building on previous collaborative efforts between the two companies that began in August 2024 with their joint development announcement for high-efficiency hydrogen generation technology, combining SOEC with waste heat utilization.

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