The non-exclusive agreement provides for the global integration of Elcogen's solid oxide electrolysis cell (SOEC) technology into Casale's plants. In return, Elcogen will provide its technology platform and technical services to support Casale in process design projects for international clients.
Conventional ammonia production relies primarily on hydrogen derived from natural gas and is associated with substantial CO₂ emissions. By using green hydrogen from renewable energy sources, these emissions can be significantly reduced.
"Solid oxide technology is on track to reach cost parity with PEM and alkaline systems in the near future," says Mikael Jansen, Director of Business Development at Elcogen. "With lower hydrogen production costs, greater scalability, and no dependence on expensive materials such as iridium and platinum, it is expected to be a future-proof technology for green ammonia production."
SOEC technology requires less electricity for electrolysis and can utilize steam from waste heat generated in industrial processes such as ammonia production to further reduce energy demand. According to the company, Elcogen's elcoStack technology operates at lower temperatures than many other solutions while maintaining high efficiency and power density.
Federico Zardi, CEO of Casale SA, sees this as an ideal match "with Casale's expertise in process integration and plant design." This collaboration opens up new opportunities for industrial applications of green hydrogen in ammonia production and beyond.
Founded in 1921, Casale is a privately held Swiss company headquartered in Lugano. With over 450 employees in seven countries, it offers integrated technologies for the chemical and fertilizer industries. Casale also develops technologies for green and blue ammonia, methanol, and hydrogen.
Elcogen, founded in 2001, is headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, and operates R&D centers in Estonia and Finland. The company develops and supplies solid oxide fuel cell and electrolysis technologies for the production of green hydrogen and zero-emission electricity across a range of applications.
