NW Natural and Modern Hydrogen Unveil Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Project

In a groundbreaking stride towards sustainable energy, NW Natural and Modern Hydrogen have launched an innovative project in Portland, combining clean hydrogen production with effective carbon capture. This initiative unveiled to an enthusiastic audience of over 100 guests and employees, signifies a pivotal moment in the journey toward a greener future.

Methane Pyrolysis: A Clean Energy Game-Changer

At the heart of this project is cutting-edge equipment designed by Modern Hydrogen, installed at NW Natural’s Central Resource Center in southeast Portland. Utilizing a process known as methane pyrolysis, this technology splits methane into hydrogen and solid carbon, offering a cleaner energy alternative.

Modern Hydrogen’s process doesn’t just produce clean hydrogen; it also captures the solid carbon byproduct. This carbon is then used in Modern Hydrogen’s proprietary asphalt products, which enhance performance in applications such as paving and road repair. In fact, a section of asphalt surrounding the equipment at NW Natural’s facility includes this innovative material, showcasing its practical utility.

Blending Clean Hydrogen with Natural Gas

The hydrogen generated on-site is seamlessly integrated into the existing natural gas infrastructure. This blending of hydrogen with natural gas represents a significant step forward in reducing carbon emissions without necessitating extensive new infrastructure.

Leaders in Innovation

David Anderson, CEO of NW Natural, emphasized the company’s dedication to innovation and sustainability. “Over the years we have held to our core values of safety and service while embracing new technologies and better ways of doing things,” Anderson stated. “Today we’re looking to renewable natural gas, clean hydrogen, carbon capture, and other ways to decarbonize our system. People are eager for solutions that can be put into action today, and we’re proud to play our part.”

Tony Pan, Co-Founder and CEO of Modern Hydrogen echoed this sentiment, highlighting the transformative impact of this project. “We are proud to stand at the forefront of this transformative journey, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in energy production and environmental stewardship,” Pan said. “Together, we are not just witnessing, but actively participating in history with the launch of innovative systems that revolutionize hydrogen production, leverage existing infrastructure for a cleaner future, capture and repurpose carbon, and significantly reduce the carbon footprint of gas utilities.”

Setting New Standards in Clean Energy

This collaboration has achieved several significant firsts, including the first utility-distributed pyrolysis system, the first pipeline injection of pyrolytic hydrogen, and the first solid carbon capture project for both companies. These milestones position NW Natural and Modern Hydrogen as leaders in the transition to sustainable energy.

A Vision for the Future

The three-year pilot project is part of NW Natural’s broader efforts to explore the potential of hydrogen. Extensive testing at the Sherwood Operations and Training facility has demonstrated the safety and performance of hydrogen blends ranging from 5 to 20 percent in natural gas systems and equipment.

NW Natural’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions is multifaceted, encompassing energy efficiency, renewable energy, carbon offsets, and carbon capture. Central to this vision is the gradual replacement of conventional natural gas with alternatives like renewable natural gas and clean hydrogen.

About NW Natural

NW Natural, a local distribution company, serves approximately two million people in Oregon and Southwest Washington. With one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation and extensive underground gas storage capacity, NW Natural has a long-standing commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and community care. As part of Northwest Natural Holding Company, NW Natural is a leader in pursuing innovative solutions for a sustainable energy future.

About Modern Hydrogen

Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Seattle, Modern Hydrogen is at the forefront of distributed hydrogen technologies and advanced carbon management solutions. Leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure, Modern Hydrogen provides practical, clean energy solutions for traditionally difficult-to-decarbonize sectors. With backing from prominent investors and customers such as Bill Gates, NextEra Energy, and National Grid, Modern Hydrogen is dedicated to transforming energy systems to be both cleaner and more cost-effective.

Embracing the Future of Energy

This partnership between NW Natural and Modern Hydrogen is not just a technological breakthrough; it represents a visionary approach to tackling climate change. By integrating clean hydrogen production with carbon capture, and utilizing existing infrastructure, these companies are setting new standards for sustainability in the energy sector.

Source: modernhydrogen.com