Enapter, a forward-thinking startup based in Germany, is leading the charge in making green hydrogen an accessible and sustainable energy source. Co-founded by Vaitea Cowan, who grew up on a climate-vulnerable South Pacific island, the company is determined to replace fossil fuels with clean hydrogen technology.
Cowan’s experience with the detrimental effects of climate change on her homeland inspired her to seek out cleaner energy alternatives. This passion led to the founding of Enapter over three years ago, with the goal of eliminating the need for diesel generators in remote areas.
“I wanted to replace all the diesel generators in New Caledonia and similar regions,” Cowan says. “But soon, I realized green hydrogen’s potential to replace fossil fuels entirely, and I wanted to drive that change.”
Enapter’s headquarters in Germany is a hub of innovation, deploying ion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysers in over 100 projects across 33 countries. These electrolysers transform renewable electricity into clean hydrogen gas, showcasing their versatility in fueling vehicles, powering industries, and heating homes.
Advancing Green Hydrogen Technology
Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis, a method that uses renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This process has faced criticism for its inefficiency and high costs, but Enapter’s AEM electrolyser provides a more efficient and affordable solution, significantly enhancing the feasibility of green hydrogen production.
Remarkably, Enapter’s technology can generate enough hydrogen to power a home for several days using just 2.4 liters of water. This innovation highlights the resource efficiency of green hydrogen, making it a practical and sustainable energy source.
Collaborating for a Sustainable Future
Enapter has joined forces with seven other European cleantech companies to form the Cleantech Scale-up Coalition. This coalition is dedicated to accelerating the deployment of technologies that will help Europe achieve climate neutrality, energy independence, and industrial competitiveness. The initiative has received backing from prominent figures, including Bill Gates and European Commissioner for Energy Kadri Simson.
Enapter aims to produce 10% of the world’s hydrogen by 2050, reflecting its commitment to making a substantial contribution to the global shift towards renewable energy.
By enhancing the accessibility and affordability of green hydrogen, Enapter is at the forefront of the movement to replace fossil fuels with sustainable energy solutions. The company’s groundbreaking technology and strategic partnerships are paving the way for a cleaner, more energy-independent future.