A revolutionary way to make clean hydrogen

This method can transform waste streams into carbon-negative hydrogen

Spotted: Hydrogen is increasingly seen as an important part of decarbonising the global energy system, and the scaleup of solar and wind energy has raised hopes for the large-scale production of low-carbon (green) hydrogen from renewable electricity. However, producing this hydrogen still requires a large energy input, which has prompted Wild Hydrogen to search for alternative methods of producing hydrogen cleanly.

Wild Hydrogen’s RiPR technology could be a game-changer for the industry by producing cost-effective, carbon-negative hydrogen from a wide range of feedstocks. Using supercritical water gasification (SCWG), the startup converts wet biogenic material – such as waste wood, plants, and compost, as well as potentially plastic waste and seaweed – into what the startup calls ‘clear’ hydrogen.

The initial output from Wild Hydrogen’s process is a blend of gases, which can be used as is or split again into its component gases: hydrogen, carbon dioxide, and biomethane. This method allows the CO2 to be captured and sequestered, meaning the carbon cycle is interrupted and carbon-negative (clear) hydrogen is created.

Unlike green hydrogen, which is produced through electrolysis, the company’s RiPR reactors don’t require large amounts of green electricity and can even operate without a mains grid connection. The process uses a fraction of the energy produced to sustain itself, meaning carbon-negative hydrogen can be generated at a competitive price.

Wild Hydrogen is now planning to build its first commercial demonstrator to produce hydrogen at scale. To enable this, the company is working on raising £6 million in its third seed round, with £2 million already secured. The company is also seeking an industrial partner or off-taker to support the company in its mission to scale up clear hydrogen technology.

Written By: Lisa Magloff