Analyst Insight: Electrolyzer Type Deployment

The electrolyzer industry is undergoing a period of rapid manufacturing scale up and technological innovation. Alkaline electrolysis (AEL) and polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolyzers account for most of confirmed orders, with solid oxide electrolyzers (SOEC) currently running a distant third. Comparatively immature technologies such as anion exchange membrane (AEM) and capillary fed electrolysis (CFE) are also being brought to market, promising reduced material costs and improved conversion efficiencies.

Recent volatility in critical mineral prices has underscored the importance of material costs to the competitiveness of hydrogen production technologies. Likewise, high electrolyzer efficiencies are seen as critical to achieving cost reduction targets for green hydrogen. Durability and operational flexibility are also key performance parameters for hydrogen producers. Going forward, manufacturers must balance their product offerings among end-users’ requirements, the advantages of proven technologies, and the need to reduce project CAPEX.

This fourth Guidehouse Insights Hydrogen Electrolyzer Tracker Analyst Insight summarizes the key findings of the tracker, outlines important market trends, provides an explanation of new trends in the electrolyzer market, and identifies drivers and barriers to market growth.