The town of Rjukan holds a unique place in both Norway’s industrial history and Nel’s legacy. Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Telemark, Rjukan is famously known as a hub of innovation dating back to the early 20th century, when Norsk Hydro established its operations there to harness the region’s abundant hydroelectric power. The town was the birthplace of large-scale hydrogen production in Norway, serving as a cornerstone for the country’s early development in renewable energy and industrial chemistry.
For Nel, Rjukan represents a historic milestone. The town was home to the largest electrolyser ever built in Norway, boasting a remarkable capacity of 167 MW. This electrolyser, constructed in the mid-20th century, marked a significant achievement in large-scale hydrogen production. Decades later, Rjukan is poised to reclaim its legacy of innovation as it becomes a central location for the rollout of Nel’s next-generation electrolyser technology platform.
Under the terms of the LoI, Nel will supply a 25 MW pressurized alkaline electrolyser to Norwegian Hydrogen’s project at Rjukan, delivered in phases. This project represents a critical step in advancing the deployment of cutting-edge hydrogen production technologies. The prototype for the electrolyser is currently under construction at Nel’s facility in Notodden, underscoring the company’s commitment to leveraging its Norwegian roots to drive technological progress.
Nel also plans to manufacture the new technology at its facility in Herøya, Norway. As announced in October 2024, the EU’s Innovation Fund granted Nel EUR 135 million in support to accelerate the industrialization of its pressurized alkaline platform, positioning Herøya as a strategic hub for innovation in hydrogen technology.
The collaboration at Rjukan symbolizes a fusion of historical significance and forward-looking innovation, solidifying the town’s role as a key player in the global transition to green energy.
