Nel has decided to build a new fully automated production line at Herøya in Norway, doubling its capacity for production of alkaline electrolyzer stacks to 1 GW.

“The expansion means that Nel is strengthening its position as a global frontrunner for development and industrialization of green H₂ technology and provides Norway with a great opportunity to take on the role as the leading exporter of electrolyzer equipment to a rapidly growing market,” said Nel’s CEO Håkon Volldal.

The investment decision was made only weeks after the company received a record size order for 200 MW of alkaline electrolyzer stacks from an U.S. customer.

“The Herøya expansion supports what we have previously communicated: when demand is present, we will add capacity. The recent 200 MW contract will not be a one-off, and as we see a potential for additional large orders in the foreseeable future, we have decided to expand our production capacity,” Volldal said.

Nel’s facility at Herøya is the world’s first fully automated electrolyzer manufacturing factory, and was officially opened by Norwegian Energy Minister Terje Lien Aasland, in April this year.

“Nel’s new factory at Herøya is a step in the right direction towards a future without emissions. In a growing H₂ market, even more electrolyzers are needed, and it will be a sign of quality that the electrolyzers are marked “made in Norway,” Aasland said in his inaugural speech.

The factory is currently running on three shifts and is setting weekly production records. Towards year end the company expect to have five shifts running. While the current production capacity is 500 MW, it can be expanded to 2 GW, which will also generate a significant amount of new direct and indirect workplaces in the area around Herøya and Porsgrunn, Norway.

The new production line is expected to be in operation from April 2024. Total capex commitment for the equipment will be approximately €35 MM.