Jericho Energy Ventures (TSX.V: JEV) (OTC: JROOF) just recognized a game-changing milestone that could reshape the future of sustainable energy. Jericho’s portfolio company, H2U Technologies, has successfully tested a groundbreaking, iridium-free catalyst material. The results? An astonishing projected lifetime of 25,000 hours!
This isn't just a technical win; it's a leap toward solving supply chain issues that have long plagued Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyzers in hydrogen production. With this innovation, H2U Technologies sets the stage for a more sustainable, cost-effective hydrogen economy.
Iridium is a rare precious metal commonly used in high-tech applications because of its durability and resistance to corrosion. However, its scarcity makes it expensive and difficult to source, often driving up the costs of technologies that rely on it, such as PEM electrolyzers, medical equipment, high-grade aviation spark plugs, and LED screens for iPads and iPhones. That’s why an iridium-free catalyst material is such a promising development.
Up until now, the best iridium-free catalysts barely last 1,400 hours under harsh conditions. H2U's innovation has already clocked in over 4,000 hours—and it's projected to last a jaw-dropping 25,000 hours, marking six years of reliable performance.
H2U's iridium-free catalysts were tested at 10x higher current density. Current density measures the amount of electric current flowing through a specific area of the catalyst. By successfully operating at such elevated levels, H2U's catalysts demonstrate exceptional performance and robustness. This achievement suggests that the catalysts can handle more intense conditions.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Designed to work seamlessly with PEM electrolyzers and renewable energy sources, these catalysts aren't just durable; they're a financial win. By ditching expensive iridium, H2U opens up new design possibilities for electrolyzers and slashes capital expenses. Thereby paving the way for more affordable hydrogen production. This should mean a dramatic cut in capital expenses with cheaper and more accessible hydrogen now within reach.
Jericho Energy Ventures co-led H2U’s 2021 Series A financing alongside Dolby Family Ventures, Hess Corporation (NYSE: HES), and Motus Ventures. Jericho also has an appointee to H2U’s Board of Directors.
Jericho's Green Tech Attracts Diverse Industry Interest
Jericho Energy Ventures, a buy-rated small-cap company, has been on a roll in recent months, making significant strides in the green technology sector. The company has been consistently unveiling exciting updates relating to partnerships and encouraging advancements.
In addition to the excitement surrounding H2U’s iridium-free catalyst materials news, JEV recently secured a new patent, adding to its growing portfolio of intellectual property (IP).
Prior to this, Jericho announced a unique three-way partnership with Sofinter Group and Exogen Hydrogen Solutions in the EU. This collaboration aims to develop groundbreaking technology that will help commercial and industrial clients significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
Indeed, Jericho now plays a crucial role in an innovative decarbonization joint venture. The company has teamed up with its EU partner Exogen to provide a unique hydrogen offering to Lhyfe (EPA: LHYFE), a green hydrogen firm. Exogen will supply Lhyfe with the HSP3000 Hydrogen Steam Plant, which incorporates Jericho's patented DCC™ zero-emission boiler technology.
The HSP3000 offers a scalable, turnkey solution for businesses, enabling them to integrate green hydrogen-powered mobility options like forklifts, vans, delivery trucks, and cars at hydrogen refilling stations. This partnership not only expands Lhyfe's green hydrogen production but also opens a new market segment, all powered by Jericho's cutting-edge technology.
Earlier, in August, a top US university chose to partner with Jericho to integrate a zero-emission DCC™ hydrogen boiler into its district heating system. This partnership underscores the academic sector's growing interest in sustainable energy solutions. This also places JEV at the forefront of decarbonizing the $198bn global district heating market.
Jericho is also collaborating with a global leader in the alcoholic beverage industry. The beverage giant plans to conduct a study on implementing Jericho's DCC™ boilers in its production facilities across four countries. This move could potentially ramp up the drinks company's efforts to decarbonize its operations.
On another front, Jericho's involvement in the HALO hydrogen hubs project is gaining traction. Industry analyst Rystad Energy has identified the HALO project as one of the top 10 candidates likely to receive funding from the Department of Energy's clean hydrogen hubs program. This initiative aims to invest $1 billion in each of 6-10 clean hydrogen hubs across the US.
With global subsidies and incentives encouraging the shift to hydrogen power, Jericho's announcements are an optimistic sign for investors. Furthermore, they lend credence to Atrium Research's Buy rating for JEV stock.
