Upstream, the partners will study the development of low-carbon hydrogen production, using both carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) and electrolysis technologies. Furthermore, they want to examine possible collaboration in the development of an international liquid hydrogen supply chain to serve the Japanese market from abroad. Downstream, the partnership will envisage joint initiatives to develop hydrogen mobility in Japan, including through a hydrogen refueling station infrastructure. In addition, Air Liquide and Eneos will explore a collaboration in innovation along the hydrogen supply chain.

Armelle Levieux, member of Air Liquide’s executive committee and vice president of Innovation, said: “Air Liquide is proud to partner with Eneos, Japan’s leading energy company. This collaboration, which will span the whole value chain of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen, will combine the strengths of two leaders in their field. As such, it can significantly contribute to the development of hydrogen as a key element of decarbonization of industry and mobility in Japan.”

Tomohide Miyata, representative Director and executive vice president, Eneos, commented: “Under the Eneos group’s long-term vision to 2040, we are taking on the challenge of achieving both a stable supply of energy and materials and the realization of a carbon-neutral society. We believe the collaboration with Air Liquide, which is one of the world's largest industrial gas companies, will also serve as a basis for leading energy transition and continue to support energy supply in Japan in a carbon neutral society.”

Miyata added that Eneos is currently considering MCH as its main hydrogen carrier, but through this MoU, the group also pursues the exploration of liquefied hydrogen in the future to contribute to the formation of a decarbonized society.