A deal has been inked to explore the feasibility of producing green hydrogen from waste plastics in Japan, a move that will expand the circular economy concept whilst ensuring energy decarbonisation and security.

The agreement has been signed by Hydrogen Utopia and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.

Mitsubishi will explore Distributed Modular Generation technology developed by UK firm Powerhouse Energy to convert waste plastic into hydrogen.

In September 2021, Powerhouse Energy entered into an agreement with Hydrogen Utopia for the commercialisation of its technology worldwide.

As part of the deal with Hydrogen Utopia, Mitsubishi will review the technology for a year and assess its potential for commercialisation in Japan.

In the event the technology is fit for use and commercialisation in Japan, Mitsubishi and Hydrogen Utopia will have to enter into new arrangements, according to the statement.

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The signing of the deal comes as Japan is embarking on various initiatives aimed at sourcing hydrogen and increasing its production locally to decarbonise its industries.

Japan is a highly industrialised country an efficient hydrogen economy can promote energy security, industrial competitiveness, and carbon emissions reduction. In 2017, Japan issued the Basic Hydrogen Strategy, becoming one of the first countries to adopt a national hydrogen framework.

Aleksandra Binkowska, the CEO of Hydrogen Utopia said: “Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has led the development of environmentally friendly technology in Japan for the last 40 years, helping to move towards a carbon-neutral world. We are privileged and honoured to have entered into this agreement with Mitsubishi, which we are very hopeful will lead to a roll-out of HUI facilities across Japan.”

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