ESG

Producing zero-emission hydrogen with natural gas

Tom Droege

Williams recently invested in Aurora Hydrogen, a company developing technology that converts natural gas to hydrogen with zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. Aurora Hydrogen’s technology uses microwave energy to convert methane to hydrogen and solid carbon without generating CO2.

“The Aurora Hydrogen technology supports our strategy to further leverage natural gas as a powerful tool in decarbonizing the energy value chain,” said Chad Zamarin, senior vice president of Corporate Strategic Development for Williams.

Williams’ investment will support scaling production to 200 kg of hydrogen per day, with the development of a demonstration plant by 2023. Hydrogen production from the Aurora technology has the potential to reduce global CO2 emissions significantly while using less electricity than other methods of hydrogen production and avoiding the need for COsequestration. Additionally, the process does not require water as a feedstock, preserving another critical resource.

“With our existing energy infrastructure, Williams is well positioned to transport, store and deliver next generation natural gas and accelerate the development of zero carbon energy sources including hydrogen and renewables,” Zamarin continued. “The investment in Aurora Hydrogen further demonstrates our commitment to develop solutions that continue to meet growing energy needs while helping customers achieve sustainability goals.”

Williams made the investment through its Corporate Venture Capital program which facilitates the company’s support of clean energy technology and innovation including clean hydrogen, solar, carbon capture utilization and storage (CCUS) and next generation natural gas.

Williams was joined by Energy Innovation Capital (EIC), Chevron Technology Ventures, Shell Ventures and the George Kaiser Family Foundation in the investment in Aurora Hydrogen.