Author: Tyler Campbell, Managing Editor, H₂Tech

According to studies, some 3.6 TW (3,600 GW) of electrolyzer capacity will be needed to decarbonize the hard-to-abate sectors. If the mobility sector is added, the required capacity is even more. Gurjant Randhawa, President and CEO, Cipher Neutron delivered a presentation titled “AEM electrolyzers” to give an overview of alkaline exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysis, what they have achieved so far, their plans for the future and why he believes that AEM electrolyzers will be superior to other technologies.

In a world transitioning to cleaner energy sources, Cipher Neutron is pioneering the production of green hydrogen (H₂), offering a sustainable solution to meet the soaring demand for clean energy. Based in Toronto, Canada, Cipher Neutron is a potential trailblazer in the green H₂ sector. With a focus on commercializing groundbreaking technologies, Cipher Neutron is driving the shift towards a H₂-powered future. As one of the first companies globally to introduce reversible fuel cell technology, the company is committed to delivering tangible solutions, not just ideas.

“Being a private company, the way we make or generate revenue is by selling a product, not by just ideas,” Randhawa said. “What we have commercially available is AEM electrolyzers.”

Randhawa shed light on the immense potential of AEM electrolyzers in green H₂ production. While the H₂ market is poised to reach unprecedented heights, surpassing $150 B in 2023, Cipher Neutron's focus remains on delivering efficient, sustainable and cost-effective solutions.

Alkaline electrolyzers, though a traditional technology developed more than a century ago, are undergoing a revolution with Cipher Neutron's approach. Offering higher efficiency, compact design and sustainability, these electrolyzers are positioned to assist in reshaping the green H₂ landscape. Unlike their counterparts, alkaline electrolyzers from Cipher Neutron do not rely on platinum group metals, thus reducing costs and eliminating dependence on scarce resources.

“Proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzers rely on platinum group metals (platinum, iridium, ruthenium) to make PEM electrolyzers,” Randhawa said. “This increases the cost of the project. More than 80% of these platinum group metals are based in South Africa, meaning every country or company that wants to produce green H₂ must rely on another country.”

The advantages of Cipher Neutron's alkaline electrolyzers extend beyond efficiency and sustainability. With the capacity to operate at higher pressures and seamlessly integrate with intermittent energy sources like solar and wind, these electrolyzers offer a versatile solution for diverse applications. From industrial processes to transportation fuels, the potential applications of green H₂ are vast, and Cipher Neutron's alkaline electrolyzers can help to enable the energy transition.

Furthermore, the company's commitment to sustainability goes beyond technology. With locally sourced materials and a zero-carbon footprint production facility in Toronto, the company is setting new standards for environmental responsibility. By prioritizing local supply chains and reducing lead times, Cipher Neutron is ensuring that its solutions are accessible and scalable, driving the widespread adoption of green H₂.

As Cipher Neutron and other companies continue to expand their production capacity and forge strategic partnerships, the future of green H₂ looks brighter than ever. With projects underway in diverse sectors, from steel manufacturing to residential power backup systems, Cipher Neutron is catalyzing the transition to a zero-emission future.

In a rapidly evolving energy landscape, Cipher Neutron stands as a beacon of innovation and sustainability. With its alkaline electrolyzers and unwavering commitment to driving positive change, Cipher Neutron is leading the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come.

“AEMs are a very efficient system, and we have achieved more than 80% efficiency vs. the 77% industry average,” Randhawa said. “There are many electrolyzers out there, but we have achieved insight for more than 80% efficiency, high intensity, high-pressure (up to 30 bar) sustainable product with short lead times and a price reduction of up to 30% when compared to platinum group metals-based electrolyzers.”