Air Liquide to build carbon-free hydrogen production plant in Canada

February 25 (Renewables Now) - French industrial and medical gases producer Air Liquide (EPA:AI) today said it broke ground on a 20 MW production facility for carbon-free hydrogen in Canada.

Bound to be the largest proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer in the world according to Air Liquide, the investment will support the group's long-term commitment to the hydrogen energy markets and its ambition to be a major player in the supply of carbon-free hydrogen.

The new plant will increase by 50% the current capacity of Air Liquide's hydrogen facility located in Becancour, Quebec . The site was chosen for its proximity to major industrial markets in Canada and the United States and will help ensure North America's supply of low-carbon hydrogen for both industry and mobility usage, said Michael J. Graff, chairman & CEO of American Air Liquide Holdings, Inc.

Last month, Air Liquide paid USD 20.5 million (EUR 18m) to buy a roughly 18.6% stake in Canadian hydrogen-based fuel cell modules maker Hydrogenics Corporation (NASDAQ:HYGS).