Fabrum, a New Zealand company leading the world in zero-emission transition technologies, has unveiled a H₂ testing facility in partnership with Christchurch Airport to support the development of green H₂-powered technologies, primarily in aviation. The partnership will see a test site established as part of the CIAL’s Kowhai Park, renewable energy precinct.

Fabrum and Christchurch Airport are partners in a H₂ consortium with Airbus, Fortescue Future Industries (FFI), Air New Zealand, and Hiringa Energy, which was established in 2023 to bring zero-emission aviation to life in New Zealand.

Fabrum executive chair Christopher Boyle said the test facility demonstrates the commitment and progress of Fabrum, Christchurch Airport and its H₂ consortium partners to building a H₂ ecosystem, with aviation as a key focus.

“We’re proud to be working with Christchurch Airport to offer a world-class facility that supports the development and testing of H₂ solutions to support global decarbonization efforts. Having liquid H₂ as an aviation fuel available onsite is vital for the aviation sector, rapidly advancing towards H₂-fuelled operations to unlock a zero-emissions future. This collaboration with Christchurch Airport further positions Christchurch as a hub for liquid H₂ activity.”

Christchurch Airport chief executive Justin Watson said, "This facility is another example of how Christchurch Airport is enabling innovation and collaboration to drive decarbonization. Having already reduced our own operational emissions by 92%, we’re now focused on helping others transition to a low-emissions future. By partnering with Fabrum and global industry leaders, we’re not just supporting the transition—we’re at the cutting edge of the sector, leading the way for us to play a key role in accelerating H₂ adoption in aviation and beyond.”

Fabrum established its advanced liquid H₂ test facility on land leased from Christchurch Airport in its 400-hectare Kowhai Park energy precinct. Fabrum’s facility enables the development of liquefiers, gas management systems, and boil-off gas management technologies.

Fabrum chief executive Dr Ojas Mahapatra says the facility provides a critical resource for companies developing liquid H₂ systems, offering them a dedicated space to test and refine their technologies.

“We look forward to welcoming the first customers to the new facility in 2025. Fabrum is already working with aviation companies globally to develop liquid H₂ storage systems, and our customers will be among the first to test the performance and reliability of H₂ technologies and infrastructure. While primarily catering to Fabrum’s clients, we would also like to invite like-minded companies for joint ventures and development projects to test their technology in the facility before it is deployed in the real world.”

In 2024 Fabrum received co-funding support for the H₂ test-site initiative through an Ārohia Trailblazer Innovation Grant from Callaghan Innovation, designed to support businesses that are benefiting the Aotearoa New Zealand innovation ecosystem and have global potential.

Boyle adds that by bringing H₂ testing and excellence facilities to the innovation ecosystem, Fabrum will facilitate partnerships and alliances to de-risk technology and advance H₂ projects domestically and internationally.