Plug Power Inc. (NASDAQ: PLUG), a leader in hydrogen solutions, has announced a significant partnership with Carlton Power for the deployment of 55 MW of GenEco electrolyzer technology across three green hydrogen projects in the United Kingdom. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the green hydrogen sector, as it represents the largest combined electrolyzer supply contract ever recorded in the UK.

1. Key Elements of the Agreement

The agreement, which is contingent upon the final investment decision (FID), encompasses three ambitious projects:

Barrow-in-Furness Hydrogen Project: 30 MW allocated, featuring six 5 MW Plug Power GenEco Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers. This project will utilize renewable electricity to produce hydrogen, with a secured offtake agreement in place with Kimberly-Clark to supply green hydrogen for its manufacturing facility.

Trafford Green Hydrogen Project: 15 MW allocated, situated within Greater Manchester’s Trafford Low Carbon Energy Park. This initiative aims to support the decarbonization of industrial and transportation sectors in the region, utilizing low-carbon electricity to produce green hydrogen for various local end users, including manufacturing and heavy transport operators.

Langage Green Hydrogen Project: 10 MW allocated, incorporating two 5 MW Plug Power GenEco PEM electrolyzers. This facility will utilize renewable energy to create hydrogen fuel for decarbonizing industrial facilities while also having the potential to serve commercial and passenger transport needs.

2. Supporting the UK's Hydrogen Ambitions

All three projects are supported by the UK Government’s Hydrogen Business Model (Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 – HAR1), emphasizing the government's commitment to fostering a robust hydrogen economy. The FIDs for the Barrow-in-Furness and Trafford Green projects are anticipated by the end of 2025, while the Langage Green project is expected to reach FID in early 2026. Once operational, these projects are set to significantly bolster the hydrogen infrastructure in Northwest England and contribute to the UK’s industrial decarbonization efforts.

3. Strengthening Partnerships

Jose Luis Crespo, President and Chief Revenue Officer of Plug Power, highlighted the importance of this collaboration, stating, “These projects underscore Plug Power’s growing leadership in the European hydrogen market and our ability to deliver scalable, reliable electrolyzers for industrial applications.” He emphasized the role of partnerships and government initiatives like HAR1 in accelerating the adoption of green hydrogen for major manufacturing sectors.

Eric Adams, Hydrogen Director at Carlton Power, echoed this sentiment, noting that the partnership with Plug Power is central to their strategy to provide reliable renewable power for UK manufacturers. “We're developing projects that set a new standard for scale, performance, and sustainability in green hydrogen production,” Adams remarked.

4. A Leader in Electrolyzer Technology

Plug Power’s expertise in large-scale hydrogen production is evidenced by its operation of the largest electrolytic liquid hydrogen plant in the United States, along with additional facilities in Tennessee and Louisiana. The company’s GenEco electrolyzers are recognized for their leading efficiency and reliability, coupled with long-term service solutions that promise optimal performance and reduced lifecycle costs.

5. Market Expansion and Future Prospects

Europe remains a vital growth market for Plug Power, as the company actively pursues multi-gigawatt electrolyzer projects across Spain and the UK, backed by a substantial $2 billion global opportunity pipeline. The developments in Barrow-in-Furness and Trafford not only highlight Plug Power’s expanding role as an industrial solutions provider but also reinforce its commitment to making green hydrogen accessible and cost-effective for a variety of sectors.

Conclusion

With this landmark agreement, Plug Power Inc. is poised to play a crucial role in the UK's transition towards a greener hydrogen economy. The successful execution of these projects will not only advance industrial decarbonization but also serve as a blueprint for future hydrogen initiatives globally. As the demand for sustainable energy solutions continues to grow, Plug Power is strategically positioned to lead the way in revolutionizing the hydrogen landscape.

Original press release