Hazer Targets 400 KTPA Hydrogen Capacity by 2034 with KBR Partnership

Hazer’s Clean Hydrogen Breakthrough

Hazer Group Limited, an Australian clean hydrogen technology developer, has laid out an ambitious roadmap to commercialise its innovative methane pyrolysis process. This technology converts natural gas into clean hydrogen and high-quality graphite using iron ore catalysts, offering a low-emission and cost-competitive alternative to traditional hydrogen production methods.

Unlike the prevalent steam methane reforming process, which emits significant carbon dioxide, Hazer’s approach promises to decarbonise hydrogen production at scale. The company’s technology is already operational at its Commercial Demonstration Plant in Perth and is poised for rapid scale-up.

Strategic Alliance with KBR

A key highlight of Hazer’s June 2025 investor presentation is its binding strategic alliance with KBR, a global engineering leader with a strong foothold in ammonia and methanol markets. This partnership is designed to accelerate the licensing and deployment of Hazer’s technology worldwide, particularly targeting the ammonia and methanol sectors where hydrogen demand is substantial.

KBR’s contribution of A$3 million to the work program and exclusive marketing rights for methane pyrolysis technologies in these sectors provide Hazer with a capital-efficient growth path. The alliance also enhances Hazer’s market credibility and execution capabilities, positioning it for multiple licensing deals over the next six years.

Expanding Global Footprint and Market Potential

Hazer’s project pipeline is rapidly expanding, with active engagements across North America, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Notable projects include partnerships with industry leaders such as Mitsui in Japan, POSCO in steelmaking, and ENGIE in Europe. The company aims to reach approximately 400 kilotonnes per annum of installed hydrogen capacity by 2034, representing about 1% of the projected global hydrogen demand.

The company’s licensing model is designed to be “capex-lite,” meaning Hazer avoids heavy capital expenditures by focusing on technology licensing and royalties. This approach is expected to generate early-phase revenues and reduce funding requirements, with illustrative net present value estimates around A$115 million over 20 years per project.

Competitive Edge and Market Readiness

Hazer’s technology is cost-competitive with existing blue hydrogen methods (steam methane reforming with carbon capture) and offers advantages over green hydrogen, which remains challenged by high energy intensity and costs. The ability to co-locate hydrogen production with end-user infrastructure eliminates transportation risks and costs, making it attractive for hard-to-abate industries such as steelmaking, refining, and petrochemicals.

Additionally, Hazer’s graphite byproduct, with up to 95% purity and unique properties, provides a valuable revenue diversification opportunity. The company’s extensive global patent portfolio, including key patents in the US and Japan, further strengthens its competitive moat.

Looking Ahead

With multiple near-term catalysts on the horizon; such as reactor scale-up, securing definitive licensing agreements, and expanding strategic partnerships; Hazer Group is positioning itself as a front-runner in the clean hydrogen revolution. The company’s focus on de-risking its technology and accelerating commercialisation could reshape hydrogen supply chains in key industrial sectors worldwide.