Wedoany.com Report-Apr 1, Akasaka Heating & Cooling Supply, a leader in energy solutions, has announced a groundbreaking project to harness green hydrogen for heating and electricity in the Akasaka 5-chome district heating system in central Tokyo. This initiative marks the first of its kind for a district heating and cooling company in Tokyo, aiming to reduce CO2 emissions in the production of cooling and heat.
The company sources green hydrogen from an undisclosed location in Japan and transports it via truck to its underground facility in Tokyo. The hydrogen is stored in 1,350 standard cubic meter (Nm3) alloy tanks, which safely and compactly store the gas by adsorbing it onto a special alloy. This process reduces the gas volume to one-thousandth of its original size, ensuring efficient storage. Unlike conventional hydrogen tanks, the use of non-flammable alloys ensures the system remains safe for installation within buildings.
Akasaka plans to integrate the hydrogen with Panasonic fuel cell systems, which are scheduled for installation by October 2025 and operational by January 2026. Each system has a 5 kW capacity and will generate electricity for in-plant use, powers LED lights, air conditioning, and emergency outlets. The remaining hydrogen will be blended 50:50 with natural gas 13A and used in two hydrogen-mixing combustion boilers. These boilers, each with a converted steam volume of 2,000 kg/h, will provide heating to a group of buildings in the district.
This project underscores Akasaka's commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions and reducing its carbon footprint. By leveraging green hydrogen, the company aims to contribute to a cleaner and more efficient energy future.
