Showa Denko K.K. (SDK) Kawasaki plant was established in 1930, and started hydrogen business in 1931. SDK delivers hydrogen through pipelines and compressed hydrogen via cylinders, cadles, and trailers. The pipeline was installed during the construction of the industrial complex in the Kawasaki coastal area. From 2015 to March 2022, a demonstration project by the Ministry of the Environment was conducted. In the demonstration project, SDK supplied hydrogen through a pipeline, and electricity and heat were provided to the hotel by a fuel cell. Most of the SDK’s pipelines are laid underground, and quality is ensured through annual safety inspections and constant cathodic protection. Expansion of the pipeline network is essential for the construction of a hydrogen society in the future. It is necessary to reduce the construction cost and deregulate the acquisition of licenses.
