Tech watch: New innovations focus on efficiency in production

From the newsletter

Green hydrogen technologies launched in the first quarter of the year focus on efficiency, marking a turning point for the sector. An analysis of five new technologies shows they aim to reduce energy consumption and increase operational performance, addressing key hurdles and positioning the industry closer to achieving sustainable, cost-effective hydrogen production.

• Of the five technologies launched, four are electrolysis-based, while one focuses on desalination, emphasizing the need for efficiency in energy and water use.

• China leads with three new technologies showcased at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi in January, while the UK and Germany each have one.

More details

• Chinese company Trina Green Hydrogen launched its One Series Alkaline Electrolyzer at the World Future Energy Summit in Abu Dhabi in January, aiming to address the significant challenge of renewable energy variability in the MENA region. The technology utilizes alkaline electrolysis to achieve high energy conversion rates, low operational costs and ensures zero discharge of non-polluting waste liquid. Its adaptability to fluctuating renewable energy sources, along with standardized production for consistent quality, positions it as a scalable solution for large-scale hydrogen production in the region.

• Similarly, Shanghai Electric Group showcased its Bristack-Z1000 Alkaline Electrolyzer at the same summit. This Chinese technology reduces direct current (DC) power consumption by 12% compared to industry standards, enhancing energy efficiency. By lowering the energy required for hydrogen production while maintaining high output, the Bristack-Z1000 directly addresses a critical barrier to green hydrogen adoption—high operational costs. This improvement in energy efficiency lays the foundation for more cost-effective and scalable hydrogen production across various sectors.

• Building on this momentum, Shanghai Electric also unveiled its 3rd Generation Desalination Technology at the summit. This innovative system targets the MENA region’s escalating water crisis with advanced thermal film coupling technology that boosts heat transfer efficiency. By combining thermal and membrane methods, the system reduces energy consumption and minimizes water production costs and land use.

•  Capable of producing large volumes of fresh water with energy consumption under 2 kWh per ton, the Chinese technology supports the sustainable development of hydrogen production, particularly in coastal areas where freshwater is critical for electrolysis-based hydrogen production.

• In March 2025, Supercritical introduced a groundbreaking membraneless electrolyzer, marking a revolutionary approach to high-pressure hydrogen production. With an energy demand as low as 42 kWh/kgH2, this technology delivers hydrogen at pressures exceeding 220 bar with over 99% purity. Its unique membraneless design eliminates the need for rare earth metals and membranes commonly used in traditional electrolysers, significantly reducing both operational costs and environmental impact.

• Continuing the trend of innovation, German green hydrogen company Enapter AG has developed the AEM Electrolyzers AI Optimizer, a software solution designed to enhance the performance of Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) electrolyzers. By analyzing real-time data from sensors monitoring temperature, pressure and power consumption, the AI optimizes energy flow, improving electrolyzer efficiency.

•  Additionally, the German technology  predicts optimal maintenance cycles, reducing costly breakdowns and extending the devices' lifespan. The AI also integrates data from renewable energy sources such as PV systems, wind power and batteries, allowing it to adjust electrolyzer operations based on fluctuations in energy availability. This dynamic approach not only enhances sustainability but also improves cost-efficiency.

Our take

• The enhanced efficiency and cost-effectiveness resulting from these technologies are crucial for widespread green hydrogen adoption. They make it economically viable and competitive across sectors, paving the way for its integration and significantly contributing to a sustainable energy future.

• These technologies are instrumental for Africa's globally competitive green hydrogen economy. However, their high cost necessitates international support and partnerships for technology transfer, financial backing and local expertise development for sustainable growth.

• While Africa may not have the technical expertise to create green hydrogen technologies yet, it could leverage its abundant renewable energy resources to form partnerships with tech companies.