NEBRA Hydrogen Research and Development S.A. and NITERRA Co., Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on an advanced green hydrogen production technology. This partnership will focus on deploying Solid Oxide Electrolyzer Cell (SOEC) technology, a high-efficiency hydrogen production method developed by NITERRA, leveraging its core ceramics expertise.
Demonstrator Project to Launch in Brazil’s Piauí Region
The initial phase of the collaboration involves a proof-of-concept demonstrator project to be installed and operated at NEBRA’s Piauí test site in Brazil. This project marks the first step of a comprehensive feasibility study on green hydrogen production using SOEC technology.
Under the agreement, NEBRA will provide the test site, utilities, operating personnel, and cover operational expenses. NITERRA will supply the SOEC electrolyzer unit and conduct training for NEBRA’s staff to ensure effective operation of the system.
Focus on Validation and Long-Term Hydrogen Production Stability
The demonstrators installed at Piauí will serve to rigorously validate the technology’s ability to achieve highly efficient and stable hydrogen production over extended periods. The goal is to publicly demonstrate the viability of this next-generation electrolyzer technology in real-world conditions.
Feasibility Study on Green Hydrogen Applications
Following the successful operation of the demonstrator, the project will evaluate the potential uses of the produced hydrogen as feedstock for various green products, including green ammonia, green methanol, and green steel. NEBRA retains the discretion to determine the specific applications of the hydrogen produced during the study.
Plans for Future Expansion Aligned with Brazil’s Decarbonization Goals
Both parties are exploring future expansion opportunities to meet increasing demand for green hydrogen in Piauí and across Brazil. This expansion aims to support large-scale SOEC water electrolysis projects, contributing to the development of new industries and advancing the country’s decarbonization efforts.
Leadership Perspectives on the Collaboration
Bart Biebuyck, CEO of NEBRA, emphasized the strategic importance of the partnership:
“NEBRA is proud to collaborate with NITERRA to bring cutting-edge electrolyzer technology to Piauí. This demonstration program represents a significant step toward revolutionizing hydrogen production in Brazil and offers valuable learning opportunities for students, scientists, engineers, and technicians. Our goal is to develop this technology to a commercial scale.”
Tadashi Watanabe, Director of Energy Business Strategy at NITERRA, highlighted the company’s commitment: “With over 90 years of ceramic technology expertise, NITERRA is dedicated to contributing to a carbon-neutral society. Through this project, we aim to demonstrate that our SOEC technology is ideally suited to Brazil’s key sectors, including agriculture and mining. Since opening our first overseas manufacturing facility in Brazil in 1959, we have grown alongside the country’s economy, and we look forward to supporting Brazil’s next generation of industries.”
