H2Next
IIT Madras
H2Next, a startup in the green technology sector, embarked on an ambitious quest to revolutionize the hydrogen production industry with their innovation: cutting-edge indigenous AEM (Anion Exchange Membrane) electrolysers and electrolyser membranes. These devices are designed to produce hydrogen and oxygen from water efficiently and cost-effectively. What began as a straightforward idea of creating affordable, local solutions for hydrogen production evolved into a complex and fascinating journey, significantly shaped by their participation in the GDC’s I-NCUBATE Program.
Initially, H2Next’s business model was grounded in the need to address the high costs and frequent maintenance associated with imported electrolysers. They aimed to deliver a solution that not only reduced capital costs by 30% but also offered a compact design with 40% space reduction, utilized any water for electrolysis, and used biodegradable membranes without noble metals.
The startup’s early assumptions were centered around serving small-scale hydrogen cylinder users in chemical, pharmaceutical, and research labs. However, this model proved to be less scalable than anticipated. H2Next’s participation in the I-NCUBATE Program proved transformative. The program’s rigorous evaluation process pushed them to reassess their initial understanding and broaden their perspective on the hydrogen technology market.
Through deep dives into market needs and feedback from industry experts, H2Next realized that to compete effectively with imported technologies, they needed to enhance their R&D efforts and redefine their business approach. They moved from a narrow focus on small-scale users to exploring partnerships with OEMs and EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) segments. This pivot aimed at increasing the viability of green hydrogen solutions and addressing the broader demand for indigenous hydrogen technology.
The next steps for H2Next involve validating the need for local value addition and technology adaptation through more interviews and collaborations with early corporate adopters and EPC teams. By focusing on deep tech R&D and expanding their market reach, H2Next is poised to make significant strides in the hydrogen technology sector, transforming how hydrogen is produced and utilized globally.
