Metacon launches 20 MW electrolyser module with reduced footprint and cost

Swedish company Metacon AB has launched a new 20 megawatt (MW) multi-level alkaline electrolysis module. The primary goal of this new module is to make the construction of large-scale hydrogen production plants more efficient by reducing their space and material cost requirements.

Compared to conventional building-based solutions, Metacon's new modular design places more production capacity on a smaller footprint. The company's calculations indicate this can reduce steel structure costs by up to 30%, piping and insulation costs by 50%, and area-related infrastructure costs by up to 70%. The design also eliminates the need for a separate factory building around the hydrogen generation system, leading to significant savings.

The new 20 MW module utilizes a compact, multi-level steel frame arrangement. The electrolyzer stacks are situated on the lower level, with gas handling equipment and cooling units positioned above. The design maintains safety provisions and allows for practical access for operation and maintenance. This layout reduces the required land area and shortens process, utility, and electrical interconnections.

Metacon's new module is based on the same principles as the company's previous 10 MW module, featuring a repeatable design that simplifies transport, installation, and future capacity expansion. Modules can be installed individually or in parallel, reducing the amount of on-site construction and assembly work.

Metacon CEO Christer Wikner stated that the company is continuously working to lower the cost of hydrogen production. He emphasized that the new module offers a highly efficient building solution for large hydrogen production plants by reducing space and material needs. Furthermore, standardization and the repeatability of core components drive both cost reduction and overall quality.