Mitsubishi Gas Chemical Company, Inc. (MGC), Methanol Reformer S.L., and Element 1 Corp. have entered into a strategic collaboration to advance hydrogen production through innovative methanol reforming technology. The three companies recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to jointly develop and commercialize Methanol-to-Hydrogen generators, aiming to enhance hydrogen availability and promote sustainability.

Under this agreement, each company will contribute its specialized expertise to accelerate the design, manufacturing, and commercialization of modular, mass-producible hydrogen generation units.

Roles of Each Partner

• Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (MGC): As a global methanol supplier, MGC will provide methanol feedstock, including circular carbon methanol, leveraging its extensive presence in the global methanol value chain.
• Methanol Reformer S.L.: The Spanish company will oversee the manufacturing of Methanol-to-Hydrogen generators under a license from Element 1.
• Element 1® Corp.: A leader in hydrogen technology, Element 1 will contribute its expertise in methanol steam reforming and hydrogen purification, bringing its intellectual property and designs to the collaboration.

This partnership aims to accelerate hydrogen adoption in regions where access to cost-effective hydrogen remains limited. The Methanol-to-Hydrogen generators developed under this initiative will play a key role in bridging this gap, offering a practical solution for clean hydrogen production.

A significant aspect of this collaboration is the use of circular carbon methanol, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and supports global sustainability initiatives. By integrating this approach, the companies hope to contribute to the global transition toward a low-carbon economy.

Masahiko Naito, Division Director, C1 Chemicals Division at MGC, emphasized the importance of methanol in achieving a carbon-neutral economy: "Methanol is a crucial component in recycling carbon and serves as a viable hydrogen carrier. We are proud to contribute to this initiative alongside Methanol Reformer S.L. and Element 1 Corp. to drive sustainable hydrogen solutions."

Javier Torres, Managing Director of Methanol Reformer S.L., highlighted the collaboration’s role in addressing global energy challenges: "Strengthening our relationship with Element 1 Corp. and partnering with MGC allows us to advance hydrogen generation technologies that will aid in decarbonizing key industries."

Dr. Dave Edlund, CEO of Element 1® Corp., expressed enthusiasm for the partnership:

"We are excited to work with MGC and Methanol Reformer S.L. to push the boundaries of hydrogen generation technology and contribute to a cleaner energy future."

This collaboration marks a significant step toward expanding hydrogen production capabilities using methanol reforming, supporting the growing demand for clean energy solutions across industries.