Hawaiʻi Gas, the state’s only regulated gas utility, has announced a project with Calgary-based Ayrton Energy, the developer of a proprietary H₂ storage system. Ayrton’s liquid organic H₂ carrier (e-LOHC™) technology is an energy-efficient system that enables stable, cost-effective storage and transportation of H₂ at room temperature. Slated for early 2026, this pilot project will study the operational and economic feasibility of using Ayrton’s e-LOHC technology for H₂ in Hawaiʻi, expanding possibilities for fuel decarbonization and the future H₂ market in the islands.

The efficient handling of H₂, a zero-carbon fuel source, has traditionally posed challenges: it has been costly to transport and store, requiring cryogenic temperatures and dedicated infrastructure, and therefore typically limited to large-scale refinery operations. With low energy demands, low toxicity and flammability, ease of transportation, and ability to use existing fuel infrastructure, Ayrton’s e-LOHC technology offers a potential right-sized solution for Hawaiʻi.

Hawaiʻi Gas produces synthetic natural gas (SNG) on Oʻahu, which contains up to 15% H₂—the highest percentage of any natural gas utility in the United States. In 2024, Hawaiʻi Gas announced plans to develop the state’s first green H₂ facility through a project with Eurus Energy America, significantly increasing the company’s investment in renewable energy and supporting the state of Hawaiʻi’s climate goals. Set to take place onsite at Hawaiʻi Gas’ Synthetic Natural Gas Plant on Oʻahu, this pilot project has the potential to remove major obstacles to wider use of H₂ as a zero-carbon energy source.

“This pilot project with Ayrton Energy will help us bring scalable H₂ projects to life,” said Nicolas Rodier, Executive Director of Clean Energy and Innovation at Hawaiʻi Gas. “While Hawaiʻi Gas has led the nation in H₂ blending for over 50 years, we’re excited to continue pursuing innovative technology to further decarbonize our fuel supply and reduce our overall carbon footprint, with safety and cost-effectiveness in mind.”

"H₂’s potential as a global energy solution depends on overcoming critical storage and transportation challenges," said Natasha Kostenuk, CEO of Ayrton Energy. "This project with Hawaiʻi Gas will demonstrate how our e-LOHC technology enables safe, scalable, and cost-effective H₂ distribution—bringing energy closer to where it’s needed most."