Accelera, a Cummins entity, unveils a 500MW hydrogen electrolyser factory in Spain

In a strategic move to bolster the hydrogen economy, Accelera, a subsidiary of Cummins Inc., has officially launched a state-of-the-art 500MW hydrogen electrolyser factory in Guadalajara, Spain. This initiative underscores Accelera’s commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions and marks a pivotal step in Cummins’ broader strategy to expand its footprint in the hydrogen sector.

A New Era in Hydrogen Production

Situated in the Castilla-La Mancha region, this new facility spans 260,000 square feet and is poised to revolutionize hydrogen production in Europe. Accelera’s advanced 5MW HyLYZER®-1000 proton exchange membrane (PEM) systems, produced here, are integral in generating green hydrogen, crucial for carbon neutrality. By utilizing renewable energy, these systems ensure that the hydrogen produced is environmentally friendly.

Understanding Electrolysers

At the heart of hydrogen production are electrolysers, which perform the critical function of splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen through a process known as electrolysis. This electrochemical reaction involves passing an electric current through water, resulting in the liberation of hydrogen gas. The hydrogen can then be harnessed as a clean fuel source, while the oxygen is released or captured for various industrial uses.

Accelera’s Strategic Expansion

Accelera, as part of Cummins, has strategically branched into electrolyser manufacturing to meet the growing demand for green hydrogen. This facility’s scalability to 1GW positions them to address the growing needs of industries and governments striving for emission reduction. By producing electrolysers locally, this move enhances service delivery to European markets, minimizes supply chain hurdles, and bolsters regional energy independence.

Key Players in the Hydrogen Electrolyser Industry

In addition to Cummins, several companies are actively engaged in manufacturing hydrogen electrolysers, including:

• Siemens Energy: Known for its innovative electrolyser solutions and commitment to sustainable energy.
• NEL Hydrogen: A leading manufacturer with a strong focus on alkaline and PEM electrolysers.
• ITM Power: Specializes in PEM electrolysers and has been a pioneer in the hydrogen sector.
• Plug Power: A key player in the deployment of hydrogen infrastructure and electrolysers.
• Thyssenkrupp: Offers a range of electrolysis products and services to support the hydrogen economy.

Manufacturing Outlook in the Hydrogen Sector

Several factors are driving this growth, including the shift toward sustainable energy sources and the increasing demand for green ammonia, essential for the fertilizer industry. Hydrogen’s versatility as an energy carrier, utilized in transport, renewable integration, and metal purification, further accelerates its adoption.

The Race to Green Hydrogen is on, with the IEA estimating that electrolyzer manufacturing will reach over 130 GW per year by 2030. Enerdata offers an even more ambitious outlook, predicting a jump to 30 GW by 2025 and soaring to 330 GW by the end of the decade. Statista’s projections for the next few years foresee capacity reaching 53 GW by 2024.

Governments and industries worldwide are investing heavily in hydrogen infrastructure, which is likely to spur further innovation and expansion in the manufacturing of electrolyzers. As countries strive to meet their climate commitments, the demand for efficient, high-capacity electrolyzers like those produced by Cummins will continue to rise.