Nel, Iwatani and Cavendish Resolve US Hydrogen Fuelling Dispute
Norwegian hydrogen technology company Nel ASA has reached a settlement with Iwatani Corporation of America and Cavendish Hydrogen ASA, bringing an end to a legal dispute linked to hydrogen fuelling stations in California, the company said on 7 June 2026.
The case, originally disclosed in February 2024, involved a lawsuit filed by Iwatani concerning agreements for the delivery of hydrogen fuelling equipment and associated services. The dispute included Nel and entities that were later spun off into Cavendish Hydrogen ASA, as well as several individuals. It centred on technical and operational challenges experienced in a developing hydrogen mobility market.
Under the terms of the settlement, Nel will pay US$7.5 million. The company said the agreement resolves all related litigation, eliminates further legal costs and reduces ongoing legal risk in the United States.
Nel, Iwatani and Cavendish Hydrogen said the matter has been resolved amicably and in a manner satisfactory to all parties. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the development of the hydrogen fuelling sector and indicated that they remain open to future collaboration.
The dispute related to hydrogen fuelling infrastructure in California, an early-stage market that has faced technical and commercial challenges as operators scale deployment. All parties noted that the issues arose in the context of a developing industry.
Nel said the settlement allows it to move forward without additional legal uncertainty, while maintaining its focus on hydrogen technology development and market expansion.
