Plug Power’s Louisiana hydrogen plant set for Q1 operations

Plug Power (PLUG) has confirmed that its new 15-ton-per-day hydrogen plant in St. Gabriel, Louisiana is on schedule as previously announced for operations in the first quarter, now entering the final commissioning phase. Operated by Hidrogenii, the facility utilizes Olin’s by-product hydrogen from chlorine production. Once fully operational, the plant will play a key role in expanding Plug’s North American hydrogen network. The project’s steady progress is complemented by a strong safety record, with the facility achieving over 412,000 safe working hours and zero recordable injuries. This milestone reflects disciplined adherence to rigorous process safety management standards and thorough job safety analyses, ensuring that all high-risk activities-from crane lifts and high-voltage installations to vessel purging and high-pressure pneumatic testing-are executed safely. A critical dry-out process is underway to remove moisture and impurities from the plant’s piping, vessels, and mechanical systems. This essential step ensures the production of high-purity hydrogen by preventing potential issues such as corrosion, freezing, and inefficiencies in fuel cell performance. The process employs advanced pressure regulation and moisture control techniques, with durations varying from several days to a few weeks depending on the section. Upon completion, the Louisiana plant will add an additional 15 TPD of liquid hydrogen, increasing Plug’s total production capacity to 39 TPD. This expansion is designed to support growing demand from key partners, including Amazon and Walmart, and further Plug’s strategy of delivering vertically integrated hydrogen solutions. Drawing on operational insights from its Woodbine, Georgia facility, the plant is set for continuous 24/7 operation, enhancing production efficiency and energy independence.