Kolon Industries and Ballard Power Systems strengthened hydrogen cooperation through an MOU to enhance fuel cell components, supply stability, innovation, and global market expansion.
Kolon Industries announced on the 4th that it has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Canada-based Ballard Power Systems to advance collaboration in the hydrogen business. The agreement was formalized at KINTEX in Ilsan and represents a significant step toward strengthening long-term strategic cooperation between the two companies in the global hydrogen fuel cell sector.
Ballard Power Systems, established in 1979, is widely recognized as one of the world’s most influential and innovative companies in fuel cell technology. Over the decades, it has developed highly efficient, durable, and reliable hydrogen fuel cell systems that support a broad range of applications. These include mobility solutions such as buses, commercial trucks, trains, and ships, along with stationary power generation and various backup power systems. Its technology is regarded as industry-leading due to its performance, resilience, and ability to support clean energy transitions across multiple sectors. Kolon Industries has been working with Ballard Power Systems since 2018 by supplying Moisture Control Devices—an essential component that helps maintain optimal operational conditions within fuel cell systems.
Through the newly signed MOU, the two companies intend to reinforce their partnership by establishing a consistent and secure supply chain for Moisture Control Devices, which play a critical role in ensuring the stable performance of hydrogen fuel cells. In addition to stabilizing the supply network, both companies will strengthen their joint efforts in product innovation, technological enhancement, and improved operational efficiency. This cooperation is expected to accelerate advancements in hydrogen fuel cell components and support the expansion of fuel cell adoption in global markets.
Kolon Industries has built a robust foundation in the hydrogen fuel cell sector over more than three decades. Its long-standing expertise includes extensive membrane design know-how and advanced manufacturing capabilities. The company has also been actively researching and developing separator technologies, which are vital for the safe and effective operation of hydrogen fuel cells. A major milestone for Kolon Industries came in 2013 when it established the world’s first industrial-scale production line for Moisture Control Devices. Since then, it has consistently maintained the No. 1 position in the global market for this technology.
Further strengthening its position in the hydrogen value chain, Kolon Industries launched production and sales of polymer electrolyte membranes (PEM) in early 2021 after setting up South Korea’s first mass production facility for these crucial materials. PEMs serve as the heart of hydrogen fuel cells, enabling efficient electrochemical reactions and overall system performance. This expansion into PEM production has enabled Kolon Industries to broaden its influence across the fuel cell supply ecosystem.
Sung Huh, President of Kolon Industries, emphasized the significance of the new partnership, stating that the MOU with Ballard Power Systems—one of the most respected names in the global hydrogen fuel cell industry—represents a meaningful milestone. He added that Kolon Industries will continue dedicating efforts to promote growth in the hydrogen market and contribute to advancements in clean-energy technologies worldwide.
