According to the company, its current density sets a benchmark within the AEM industry and matches the best cell efficiencies of most PEM electrolysis technologies. With this technical breakthrough, Ecolectro-powered electrolyzers can provide green hydrogen at significantly lower costs. Ultimately, the company anticipates achieving further improvements with a target efficiency of an industry-leading 80% or more.
The production rate and efficiency achievements have been demonstrated using Ecolectro’s proprietary hydrocarbon-based chemistry, which avoids the use of any perfluoro-alkyl substances (PFAs), iridium-based catalysts and titanium-based components in the plates and porous transport layers. These material innovations not only lead to an impressive 80% cost reduction compared to PEM-based stacks, but they also significantly lower Ecolectro’s carbon footprint and enhance the sustainability of operations, reflecting their commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
In addition to the performance milestones, the company has successfully scaled their electrolyzers from the lab-scale to the pilot-scale. They have deployed a pilot electrolyzer at a utility company and have made green hydrogen on-site for further use.
Dr. Kristina M. Hugar, CTO at Ecolectro, said: “Delivering a product that meets our customer’s expectations is at the heart of what makes both our chemical innovations and our approach to electrolyzer development special – we are demonstrating our ability to achieve low cost and scale, without sacrificing performance or durability.”
Ecolectro recently closed a Series A round led by Toyota Ventures, with participation from Starshot Capital, New Climate Ventures, Techstars, Energy Revolution Ventures, and other leading investors. This additional funding demonstrates their commitment to Ecolectro’s mission of democratizing green hydrogen, and is a vote of confidence in the team’s proven ability to exceed technical milestones. Ecolectro’s CEO, Gabriel Rodriguez-Calero, said that “the Series A round is a strong endorsement of our strategic vision, our product, and our commitment to being the first company to profitably scale green hydrogen. This infusion of capital strengthens our ability to expand our reach and empowers us on our mission to develop an electrolyzer that sets the standard in both performance and sustainability.”
The lead investor, Toyota Ventures, with its history of fostering innovation in hydrogen, has recognized Ecolectro’s potential to transform the hydrogen sector. The investment is intended to accelerate the company’s research and development, scale up its production capabilities, and enhance its market reach.
“An abundant and affordable supply of green hydrogen is critical to achieve carbon neutrality. By tackling the economics of production, we believe Ecolectro’s AEM electrolyzer technology can play an important role in scaling the green hydrogen economy,” said Lisa Coca, partner, Toyota Ventures Climate Fund. “We’re proud to lead Ecolectro’s Series A and look forward to continuing our support of the team as they work towards their mission of decarbonizing essential, hard-to-abate sectors of the economy.”
