Element Resources to Build Hydrogen Plant With Solar, Storage in California

Element Resources is investing $1.85 billion to construct the Lancaster Clean Energy Center (LCEC), planned as North America’s largest hydrogen production facility, located north of Los Angeles, California. Construction is set to begin later in 2025, with operations expected to start by mid-2027. The 2,100-acre facility will produce 22,000 tons of green hydrogen annually (60,000 kg per day) in gaseous and liquid forms, serving heavy- and medium-duty transportation, public transit, rail, and port operations.

Steve Meheen, CEO of Element Resources, stated: “The LCEC will be powered fully by on-site solar energy and use groundwater from the aquifer under the land.” He added: “The facility will only use 15% to 20% of the water formerly being used to irrigate carrots, onions and potatoes on the land, significantly minimizing water usage. A long-duration battery energy storage system will ensure 24/7 hydrogen production.” The plant will operate independently of external grid electricity and water sources, enhancing its sustainability.

California Governor Gavin Newsom announced that Element Resources will receive $30.5 million in tax credits through the California Jobs First initiative, supporting the project’s development. The LCEC will supply zero-carbon hydrogen fuel to the First Public Hydrogen Authority, a utility established by the City of Lancaster and the City of Industry. This utility will distribute hydrogen for city buses, port vehicles, power plants (as a blended fuel), and aviation.

The project involves collaboration with partners, including the City of Lancaster, the ARCHES hydrogen partnership, the Center for Hydrogen Safety, the California Transit Association, and the California Hydrogen Business Council. Meheen noted: “The LCEC will help the ultimate consumers of its green hydrogen to meet California’s ambitious clean energy targets.” Element Resources is also exploring the development of another hydrogen facility in Boron, California.

The LCEC will use zero-emission trucks powered by hydrogen fuel cells for distribution, aligning with California’s efforts to build a robust hydrogen production and distribution network. In 2024, Avina Clean Hydrogen began constructing a green hydrogen facility in Vernon, California, to serve the Port of Long Beach’s transportation needs, reflecting the state’s commitment to advancing clean energy infrastructure.

The Lancaster Clean Energy Center is expected to contribute to regional economic growth and support California’s clean energy goals by providing sustainable fuel solutions for various sectors, reinforcing the state’s leadership in green hydrogen development.