Mitsubishi operates 400 kW SOEC test module for high-efficiency H2 production

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has started operation of a 400 kW test module of the Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell (SOEC), a next-generation high-efficiency hydrogen production technology, at Takasago Hydrogen Park in Hyogo Prefecture in west central Japan. 

SOEC is based on technology for the previously developed Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC), and is claimed as the major step forward toward achieving overall efficiency of 90 percent HHV. The results of this research project will be utilized to support even higher output and greater capacity, according to the company.

Further, the use of MHI's proprietary tubular cell stack supports development as a technology capable of operating at high pressures, setting it apart from competing systems, the company adds. The SOEC test module comprises a module with multiple cartridges of 500 cell stacks bundled together.

During test operations, the electrolytic efficiency of the module was 3.5 kWh/Nm3 (101%-HHV (higher heating value)), confirming that the module was operating with high efficiency. This is a major step forward toward achieving MHI's goal of building a system with an overall efficiency of 90 percent HHV, Mitsubishi claims. 

MHI has also successfully conducted cartridge tests under larger amounts of electric current condition per cell stack, steadily making progress toward development of a "megawatt class" SOEC with high power density. 

In addition, MHI plans to install a MW-class SOEC system demonstration facility at Takasago Hydrogen Park within the next few years, and is moving forward with preparations for integrated verification within the park, with the aim of commercialization of the system following actual operation.

In the coming years, the company plans to proceed with demonstrations aimed at the commercialization of hydrogen production equipment with different characteristics, such as anion exchange membrane (AEM) water electrolysis and methane pyrolysis.

Mitsubishi is committed to accelerating the development of hydrogen production and power generation technologies and verification of systems, utilizing its Takasago Hydrogen Park.