Schaeffler sets up wholly-owned subsidiary in China for hydrogen-related businesses

Shanghai (Gasgoo)- On January 6, 2025, Schaeffler signed a framework cooperation agreement with the local government of Anting Town, Jiading District, Shanghai, to establish a wholly-owned subsidiary, Schaeffler Hydrogen Energy Technology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., according to a post on the company's WeChat account.

The new subsidiary will focus on the R&D, and production of hydrogen energy-related technologies and products, offering hydrogen energy solutions to end-users across various application scenarios.

Hydrogen energy, known for its abundance and zero-carbon nature, holds significant potential in combating climate change and is becoming a vital carrier for global energy transitions. Against the backdrop of China's "dual carbon" goals, Schaeffler aims to leverage its technological expertise to accelerate the application and industrialization of hydrogen energy technologies. The newly established company is located in the Jiading Hydrogen Energy Port within Anting Town, Jiading District, Shanghai. It will concentrate on developing and commercializing hydrogen technologies, such as PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) and AEM (Anion Exchange Membrane) electrolyzer stacks for water electrolysis.

Following the establishment of Schaeffler Hydrogen Energy Technology in Jiading, the company plans to integrate deeply into the regional supply chain and drive innovation in the hydrogen energy industry. Recently, Schaeffler participated in Shanghai's first source-grid-load-storage integrated zero-carbon hydrogen storage project, located at the Shanghai Hydrogen Storage and Power Base in Jiading Hydrogen Energy Port. For this demonstration project, Schaeffler provided a complete set of PEM electrolyzer solutions for hydrogen production, including pure water production, power supply, and gas-water separation. This marks Schaeffler's first commercial-grade PEM hydrogen production system delivery, signifying a crucial milestone in its hydrogen energy endeavors.

Hydrogen energy is a strategic focus area for Schaeffler. The company's core competencies in metal forming, materials technology, and surface treatment enable it to play a pivotal role in developing hydrogen-related products and achieving large-scale production. Schaeffler's hydrogen energy strategy spans the entire value chain, from hydrogen production to its application in fuel cells and even green steel manufacturing.

One of Schaeffler's key products in this sector is the metallic bipolar plate, a critical component for electrolyzers and hydrogen fuel cells. Manufactured through precision forming and special coating processes, these plates enhance the efficiency of hydrogen systems. Additionally, Schaeffler provides specialized bearings, thermal management modules, electronic control systems, sensors, and hydrogen recirculation components to support the development of efficient hydrogen fuel cell power systems.