Metacon Secures EU Funding
Metacon AB, a prominent figure in the hydrogen production industry, has made a significant stride in the advancement of green energy solutions. Their Greek subsidiary, Metacon SA, has been awarded public funding from the European Union for participating in the AMEL project — standing for Green Hydrogen Advancement via Pioneering Anion Exchange Membrane Water Electrolyzer Solutions. This initiative aims to enhance the technology behind Anion Exchange Membrane (AEM) water electrolysis, ultimately promoting more cost-effective and sustainable green hydrogen production.
Project Overview
The AMEL project, under reference AMEL (ΠΔΕΡ01-0098859), sets ambitious goals for improving the AEM electrolysis technology. Metacon’s commitment includes optimizing electrolytic systems that utilize catalysts for both the oxygen and hydrogen evolution reactions without the reliance on critical raw materials or rare metals such as platinum and iridium. This focus on developing innovative catalysts is central to the project’s vision of producing cleaner hydrogen more efficiently.
The project budget totals approximately EUR 130,407, with an impressive 80% covered by public funding—EUR 104,326 to be precise. Spanning a duration of 24 months, the project targets achieving an electrical efficiency surpassing 80% and aims to maintain robust operation during both steady and variable conditions. Key activities include enhancing electrode designs, bolstering membrane durability, fine-tuning system components, and creating a 0.5 kW stack and test unit.
Benefits to Metacon and the Region
This strategic project not only advances Metacon's R&D endeavors in electrolysis but also enriches its existing capabilities in pressurized alkaline electrolysis and PEM technologies. Furthermore, the research aligns with the regional innovation landscape of Western Greece, bolstering local expertise and industry collaboration.
Christer Wikner, the President and CEO of Metacon, expressed optimism regarding the project’s implications, stating, “Innovation is essential for accelerating continuous improvements in hydrogen production. We are pleased to receive this support and to participate in developing AEM electrolysis technology. AEM has significant long-term potential, complementing existing technologies and contributing to even more cost-efficient hydrogen production in critical applications moving forward.”
EU’s Role in Funding
The AMEL initiative was approved under the EU's “RESEARCH INNOVATION IN WESTERN GREECE 2024” framework, specifically targeting projects that foster the development of new or improved products, services, and processes in line with regional specialization strategies. The public financing is also supported by contributions from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), Greek National Funds, as well as the Operational Programme “Western Greece 2021-2027”.
About Metacon
Founded and located in Uppsala, Sweden, Metacon AB (publ) is recognized for its innovative hydrogen production systems. The company develops, manufactures, and supplies highly efficient hydrogen production technologies covering design, installation, service, and maintenance. It operates in close collaboration with PERIC Hydrogen Technologies, a leader in pressurized alkaline electrolysis technology, ensuring that Metacon remains at the forefront of hydrogen production innovations. Additionally, Metacon's reforming business unit delivers hydrogen generation solutions utilizing proprietary technology, generating sustainable hydrogen from renewable resources without necessitating a grid connection.
For further insights into the AMEL project or Metacon's endeavors, inquiries can be directed to Christer Wikner directly at +46 707 647 389 or via email.
The official website,
Metacon, provides additional information about their ongoing projects and innovations in the field of green hydrogen production.