Once more Japan is leading the way. Public and private sectors have decided to work together to trial a full-fledged carbon-neutral hydrogen supply chain powered by renewable wind energy. The trials will take place near the cities of Yokohama and Kawasaki in the Keihin coastal region.

Wind power will be used to turn water into oxygen and hydrogen, with the latter stored for use locally. Grid power will only be used for backup when absolutely necessary and excess renewable energy produced may even be sold to utility companies.

As plans currently stand, the project will involve :
– a system to produce hydrogen by electrolyzing water using wind power
– a system to optimize storage and transportation of hydrogen produced
– use of fuel cell forklifts
– a hydrogen supply chain feasibility study (hydrogen price, CO2 reduction, etc.)

On the public sector side, the project is being implemented by the Kanagawa Prefectural Government, Yokohama City, and Kawasaki City. The four private sector participants are Iwatani Corporation, Toshiba Corporation, Toyota Motor Corporation, and Toyota Turbine and Systems Inc. In addition, the project will be supported by Japan’s Ministry of the Environment.