Iconic Applications and Case Studies: Examining the Prosperity of PEM Technology (2023-2030)
- Ryan Huang
- Feb 24
- 3 min read
Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis is a cornerstone of the green hydrogen revolution, with several landmark projects demonstrating its potential. Below are key case studies that highlight the prosperity of PEM technology and its projected growth in the coming decade.
1. Shell and ITM Power’s 10 MW Rheinland Refinery Project (Germany)

Source: itm-power.com
Overview: This project, operational since 2021, is one of the largest PEM electrolyzers in Europe. It produces green hydrogen for use in the refinery, reducing carbon emissions in the refining process.
Impact: The project showcases the scalability of PEM technology and its integration into industrial applications. It has paved the way for larger-scale projects in the coming decade.
Future Prospects: As refineries worldwide seek to decarbonize, PEM electrolyzers are expected to play a critical role in producing green hydrogen for industrial use.
2. Air Liquide’s PEM Electrolyzer in Bécancour, Canada
Overview: Air Liquide inaugurated a 20 MW PEM electrolyzer in 2023, one of the largest in the world. The facility produces green hydrogen for industrial and mobility applications.
Impact: This project highlights the growing adoption of PEM technology in regions with abundant renewable energy resources.
Future Prospects: Canada’s focus on green hydrogen production positions PEM electrolyzers as a key technology for exporting hydrogen to global markets.
3. HyDeal Ambition (Spain)

Overview: HyDeal Ambition is a landmark initiative aiming to produce green hydrogen at scale using PEM electrolyzers powered by solar energy. The project targets 67 GW of electrolyzer capacity by 2030.
Impact: This initiative demonstrates the potential of PEM technology to support large-scale hydrogen production for industrial and energy storage applications.
Future Prospects: As one of the most ambitious green hydrogen projects globally, HyDeal Ambition is expected to drive cost reductions and technological advancements in PEM electrolysis. (www.hydeal.com/)
4. NEOM Green Hydrogen Project (Saudi Arabia)
Overview: The NEOM project, a collaboration between ACWA Power, Air Products, and NEOM, will use PEM electrolyzers powered by renewable energy to produce green hydrogen for export.
Impact: This project highlights the role of PEM technology in regions with abundant renewable energy resources, enabling the production of cost-competitive green hydrogen.
Future Prospects: The NEOM project is expected to set a benchmark for large-scale green hydrogen production, driving global adoption of PEM electrolyzers.
5. H2 Green Steel (Sweden)
Overview: H2 Green Steel is using PEM electrolyzers to produce green hydrogen for use in steel production, replacing coal-based processes.
Impact: This project demonstrates the application of PEM technology in hard-to-abate sectors like steel manufacturing.
Future Prospects: As industries seek to decarbonize, PEM electrolyzers are expected to play a critical role in enabling green steel production and other industrial applications.
6. European Hydrogen Backbone Initiative
Overview: This initiative aims to develop a hydrogen infrastructure network across Europe, with PEM electrolyzers playing a key role in green hydrogen production.
Impact: The initiative highlights the importance of PEM technology in supporting the transition to a hydrogen-based economy.
Future Prospects: With strong policy support and investment, PEM electrolyzers are expected to become a cornerstone of Europe’s hydrogen infrastructure.
Source: ehb.eu

Conclusion
These iconic applications and case studies demonstrate the prosperity of PEM technology in the coming decade. As the global demand for green hydrogen grows, PEM electrolyzers are expected to play a pivotal role in enabling the transition to a sustainable energy future. Continued advancements in technology, cost reductions, and supportive policies will drive the widespread adoption of PEM electrolysis across industries and regions.
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