EM Energy Organic Hydrogen Electrolyser Cell (OHEC) Critical Element Testing and Characterisation 

This project led by the University of Newcastle aims to test, characterise and validate critical technology elements associated with industry partner EM Energy’s Organic Hydrogen Electrolyser Cell (OHEC) technology. The OHEC technology utilises abundant, non-toxic organic and inorganic materials to produce green hydrogen. The OHEC is highly scalable, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, from an alternative gas supply for domestic homes to feedstock for heavy industries, such as ammonia or steel production. The project will investigate the performance of a wide range of organic feedstocks, such as waste that would otherwise go to landfill, resulting in a truly sustainable source of green hydrogen which contributes to the circular economy. This collaborative effort will target the characterisation, testing and validation of various aspects of the technology that will progress the TRL and CRL, increasing the commercialisation potential.

The work will include product gas analysis, voltage output analysis and overall device characterisation for various organic feedstocks and scaled device architectures. This project will build upon an existing project currently being supported by the Federal Government’s Trailblazer for Recycling & Clean Energy.

EM Energy has pioneered the development of the OHEC technology, aiming to fuel the world with nature by converting organic waste into sustainable green hydrogen without using energy or water. The company was selected as the first recipient of the Federal Government’s Trailblazer (TRaCE) R&D voucher program. In collaboration with the University of Newcastle, EM Energy is testing and validating its operational prototype at the Newcastle Institute of Energy and Resources (NIER) facilities.

At the core of EM Energy’s success are its co-founders, Isabel Toasa and Chris Wilson – seasoned entrepreneurs with a history of establishing technology and clean energy ventures. Relocating from Sydney to Newcastle, they have embraced the Hunter Valley region’s technological and manufacturing capabilities.

Project Lead: Peter Richardson, University of Newcastle

Project Partner:  EM Energy

Anticipated Project Timeline:  July 2024 – June 2025