Fourier Hydrogen Electrolyzers - Data Center Inspired Technology

The Challenge of Affordable Hydrogen Production

Although hydrogen is the most prevalent element in the universe, producing it in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly manner on Earth has proven to be a significant challenge.

Siva Yellamraju, co-founder and CEO of Fourier, explained to TechCrunch, “Hydrogen production has historically faced two key obstacles: efficient creation and efficient distribution.”

Fourier's Innovative Approach

Many emerging hydrogen companies are concentrating on the development of modular electrolyzers, designed for large-scale production and convenient transport within shipping containers. Fourier is advancing this trend by aiming for an exceptionally compact design.

The company’s objective is to create a system no larger than two standard server racks positioned adjacent to each other.

Securing Investment for Growth

Investors have demonstrated considerable interest, with General Catalyst and Paramark Ventures spearheading an $18.5 million Series A funding round, as exclusively reported to TechCrunch. Additional investors participating in this round include Airbus Ventures, Borusan Ventures, GSBackers, MCJ Collective, and Positive Ventures.

Internal System Design: Inspired by Data Centers

Fourier’s design philosophy extends to the internal components of the module. The system incorporates numerous small electrolyzers – approximately 20 in the current configuration – referred to as “blades.”

These blades share a common water supply provided by a pump, and receive power from repurposed power supplies originating from the data center industry.

“These power supplies are reprogrammed and adapted for electrolysis applications,” Yellamraju stated. “This also enables us to leverage components that are already manufactured in the billions.”

Software Optimization and the Battery Analogy

Software within each hydrogen production module manages the operation of the blades to maximize efficiency.

Yellamraju noted that the company drew inspiration from lithium-ion battery technology in developing this system.

“Companies like Tesla have successfully utilized numerous small cells, managed by a computational layer, to achieve scalability and cost-effectiveness,” he explained.

Borrowing from Battery Management Systems

Tesla’s battery packs integrate thousands of individual batteries, overseen by a “battery management system” (BMS). This BMS regulates charging and discharging, monitors cell health, and identifies batteries requiring maintenance or replacement.

Similarly, Fourier’s system continuously monitors the performance of each electrolyzer blade, adjusting output and detecting any signs of deterioration.

The ultimate aim, according to Yellamraju, is to “transform the challenges of overall efficiency and production into a data optimization problem.”

Pilot Programs and Future Expansion

The startup has completed two lab-scale pilot projects, producing approximately one kilogram of hydrogen per hour, in collaboration with a pharmaceutical company and a solar energy provider.

Two commercial-scale pilot plants are planned, one at a petrochemical facility in Ohio and another at an airline parts manufacturer in Fremont, California, with both expected to be operational by June.

Fourier is initially targeting customers requiring 6 to 20 kilograms of hydrogen per hour, necessitating electrolyzer capacity ranging from 300 kilowatts to 1 megawatt.

Cost Savings and Market Potential

Currently, potential commercial clients in sectors like pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and ceramics pay around $13 to $14 per kilogram of hydrogen.

Yellamraju asserts that Fourier can deliver hydrogen at a cost of $6 to $7 per kilogram, excluding any governmental incentives. “Even with our profit margin, customers will still realize a 50% cost reduction,” he concluded.