Johnson Matthey Embarks on Hydrogen Investment in China
Johnson Matthey (JM), a global leader in sustainable technologies, has signed an investment agreement with the Jiading District in Shanghai, China, to contribute to the advancement of the hydrogen economy in the country. The agreement, announced at a signing ceremony in Sonning, UK, entails the construction of a new catalyst coated membrane (CCM) production facility in Shanghai’s Jiading district. This facility aims to provide CCM production capability for various applications, including proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells and PEM electrolysers.
The CCM production facility is anticipated to have an initial capacity of up to 5GW and will be situated in a designated Hydrogen industrial zone, occupying 22,000 square meters. Plans are set for it to become operational by 2025, with the potential for further expansion based on customer demand.
The investment aligns with JM’s £1.1 billion global stated capital expenditure for the period from 2022 to 2025 and will involve government support and incentives. Dr. Mark Su, President of Greater China at Johnson Matthey, expressed his excitement about this significant investment, as it solidifies the company’s presence in all three major hydrogen markets – the US, Europe, and now China. Dr. Su emphasized the importance of expanding their businesses while creating and scaling low-carbon solutions that contribute to China’s ambitious goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2060.
The new production facility will enable Johnson Matthey to supply domestically produced CCMs to existing Chinese and international customers. The company already has a strong customer pipeline showing interest in fuel cell and renewable hydrogen technologies.
Ms. Gao Xiang, Mayor of Jiading District, highlighted the strategic significance of this investment agreement, stating that it aligns with Jiading District’s efforts to establish itself as an innovation hub for hydrogen technologies and a national demonstration city for fuel cell vehicles. The collaboration with Johnson Matthey enhances both parties’ capabilities and presents a win-win cooperation opportunity.
Catalyst coated membranes (CCMs) play a crucial role in the performance of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). China has set a target to have 1 million hydrogen-powered vehicles on its roads by 2030, underscoring the importance of investing in CCM production.
With six state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in China, Johnson Matthey has a longstanding presence in the country. The company is a key player in the production of auto catalysts, platinum group metals trading and refining, and syngas and hydrogen fuel cells. Furthermore, Johnson Matthey was the first commercial-scale membrane electrode assembly (MEA) producer in China, supplying MEAs for hydrogen fuel cell shuttle buses showcased during the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022.
Johnson Matthey is a global leader in sustainable technologies, driving the transition to achieve net-zero emissions. With a rich history of over 200 years and a commitment to innovation, the company enhances the performance, functionality, and safety of its customers’ products. Johnson Matthey’s contributions have a global impact in crucial areas such as low emission transport, energy, chemical processing, and the efficient utilization of natural resources.
In summary, Johnson Matthey’s investment agreement with the Jiading District in Shanghai marks a significant milestone for the company. It solidifies its presence in all major hydrogen markets while supporting China’s commitment to carbon neutrality. The new production facility will cater to the growing demand for CCMs and contribute to the development of fuel cell and renewable hydrogen technologies, ultimately propelling the hydrogen economy forward.
