JERA and DENSO Launch Japan’s First SOEC Hydrogen Production Demonstration at Shin-Nagoya Thermal Power Station

JERA Co., Inc. (“JERA”) and DENSO CORPORATION (“DENSO”) today announced the launch of Japan’s first demonstration of hydrogen production at a thermal power station, utilizing DENSO’s state-of-the-art solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) water electrolysis systems. The demonstration is taking place at JERA’s Shin-Nagoya Thermal Power Station in Aichi, with an initial electrolysis capacity of 200 kW.
Hydrogen, a zero-carbon energy carrier, is increasingly recognized as a critical solution for decarbonizing power generation, transportation, and industrial sectors. In line with global efforts to achieve a carbon-neutral society, JERA and DENSO began collaborative development of high-efficiency SOEC hydrogen production technology in August 2024. This initiative now moves into the operational demonstration phase at a working thermal power station—an industry first in Japan.
The goal of this demonstration is to achieve world-class electrolysis efficiency by leveraging DENSO’s proprietary heat-management technology, which minimizes energy loss from the SOEC system. Results from this testing will inform plans to scale electrolysis capacity from 200 kW to several thousand kW, accelerating the practical deployment of next-generation SOEC fuel production systems.
JERA is committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions across its domestic and international operations by 2050. As part of its decarbonization strategy, the company is building a robust hydrogen and ammonia supply chain and developing zero-emissions thermal power solutions. DENSO, leveraging its advanced mobility and energy technologies, is advancing hydrogen utilization for industrial and commercial applications.
Through this pioneering demonstration, JERA and DENSO aim to accelerate the establishment of a global green hydrogen and ammonia supply chain, supporting the worldwide transition to low-carbon energy. The project highlights both companies’ commitment to innovation, sustainable energy, and tangible solutions for global decarbonization challenges.
Key Highlights:
- Japan’s first hydrogen production demonstration at a thermal power station using SOEC water electrolysis.
- Initial electrolysis power of 200 kW, with plans to scale to multi-megawatt capacity.
- Application of advanced heat-management technology to maximize electrolysis efficiency.
- Supports JERA’s 2050 net-zero CO2 goal and the development of a green hydrogen supply chain.
- Strengthens Japan’s leadership in hydrogen energy innovation and sustainable power generation.
About JERA
JERA Co., Inc. is a global leader in energy, committed to achieving net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050. The company develops innovative solutions in thermal power, renewable energy, hydrogen, and ammonia, driving sustainable energy transitions worldwide.
About DENSO CORPORATION
DENSO CORPORATION is a global technology company applying advanced engineering solutions from the mobility sector to energy innovation. The company develops high-efficiency systems for hydrogen production, fuel cells, and sustainable energy applications, contributing to global decarbonization efforts.