China’s first seawater directly electrolysis hydrogen plant began operation

(Qingdao, Shandong province) China's first pivot demonstration seawater directly electrolysis hydrogen plant began production in Sinopec’s Qingdao refinery complex on December 13, announced by Sinopec.

The project, combining direct seawater hydrogen production with green electricity, is capable of producing 20 cubic meters of green hydrogen per hour, the company said.

Photo: the facility, Source: Sinopec

The project aims to test the efficiency and durability of a new solution for utilizing renewable energy in coastal areas while offering a pathway for recycling high-salinity industrial wastewater.

The project uses green electricity generated by a floating photovoltaic power station of the company's Qingdao refinery to directly electrolyze seawater into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen produced is then integrated into the refinery's pipeline network for refining operations or fueling hydrogen-powered vehicles, with the entire production process carried out within the factory, according to the company.

Besides this project, multiple major advancements in seawater hydrogen production have been achieved in China through 2024: