Graphitic Energy, previously known as C-Zero, has successfully commissioned its pilot plant at the Southwest Research Institute (SWRI) in San Antonio, Texas. This cutting-edge facility marks the company’s first large-scale demonstration of its innovative methane pyrolysis technology, which transforms natural gas into clean hydrogen and solid graphite carbon.

The pilot plant is designed to operate 24/7 and can produce several hundred kilograms of hydrogen and up to 1,000 kg of solid carbon daily. The plant is expected to remain operational through the end of 2025. According to Dr. Patrick Hanks, Graphitic Energy's Chief Technology Officer, the primary objectives of the plant are to gather scale-up data for commercial production and to generate substantial volumes of solid carbon for distribution to carbon offtake partners.

Graphitic Energy’s methane pyrolysis process offers several advantages. It emits virtually no direct CO2, requires minimal electricity, and can scale up to produce 100,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually with a single process train. Unlike many other clean hydrogen solutions, Graphitic Energy’s cost-effective process does not rely on government subsidies to remain competitive. The company can profitably supply both hydrogen and graphite at current market prices. Furthermore, this technology can be deployed wherever natural gas or LNG is available, eliminating the need for renewable electricity or geological CO2 sequestration.

"The world has been talking about an 'energy transition,' but that shift already occurred with the fracking revolution in the 2010s," said Zach Jones, CEO and Co-Founder of Graphitic Energy. "America leads the world in natural gas production, one of the most affordable and environmentally friendly fuels. Our innovation further enhances its sustainability by isolating carbon as solid graphite. This allows us to domestically supply a vital mineral used in batteries, nuclear reactors, and other key technologies. Meanwhile, our hydrogen output can help meet the United States' annual demand of over 10 million metric tons, particularly for refining and ammonia production. Our solution strengthens America’s energy independence while supporting decarbonization efforts."

Graphitic Energy’s pilot plant received backing from a $15 million extension of its Series A funding, raising the company’s total investment to over $65 million. Key investors in the extension include Energy Capital Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and Trafigura.

"We’ve been impressed by the Graphitic Energy team’s ingenuity and innovative approach to clean hydrogen production," said Vic Pascucci, Co-Founder and Managing General Partner of Energy Capital Ventures. "Reducing clean energy costs is crucial for global adoption, and Graphitic Energy’s strategy is highly promising."

Carmichael Roberts of Breakthrough Energy Ventures added, "Our continued investment in Graphitic Energy reflects our confidence in their ability to scale this groundbreaking technology. Their unique process effectively strengthens domestic supply chains, enhances energy security, and provides a cost-effective solution for clean hydrogen production — a significant step forward for the industry and the environment."