Canada and Japan Partners Launch Study into Liquefied Hydrogen Supply Chain

A new international collaboration has been launched to explore the development of a liquefied hydrogen supply chain between Canada and Japan, signalling growing momentum in the global hydrogen economy.

The agreement, signed during the Canadian Hydrogen Convention 2026, brings together the Edmonton Region Hydrogen Hub, Alberta’s Industrial Heartland Association, Edmonton Global and Japan’s Kawasaki Heavy Industries.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) will see the partners assess the feasibility of building both domestic and international liquefied hydrogen supply chains, with a focus on exporting Canadian-produced hydrogen to key demand markets such as Japan.

The initiative is expected to strengthen Canada’s position as a global supplier of low-carbon hydrogen while enhancing energy security in importing nations.

The Edmonton region, already home to one of Canada’s largest hydrogen production clusters, is seen as a strategic base for such developments. Its access to low-cost natural gas, combined with established carbon capture and storage capabilities, supports its potential as a reliable exporter of low-carbon hydrogen.

Under the agreement, the partners will study technologies for transporting liquefied hydrogen by rail and ship, while also seeking to engage additional stakeholders—including industry players, research institutions and government bodies—to form a full value chain consortium.

Brent Lakeman said the collaboration highlights the region’s growing role in the clean energy transition.

“This partnership reflects our ability to connect global partners and advance real, market-focused hydrogen opportunities,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Mark Plamondon emphasised the region’s industrial scale and infrastructure, describing it as well-positioned to support globally integrated hydrogen supply chains.

Daryn Edgar added that the partnership demonstrates how Canadian capabilities can be linked with rising demand in Asian markets.

From the Japanese side, Kei Nomura said liquefied hydrogen would play a key role in achieving a sustainable energy future, highlighting the company’s expertise in hydrogen production, storage and transport.

The collaboration underscores increasing international cooperation to develop hydrogen as a cornerstone of decarbonised energy systems, particularly for long-distance energy trade where liquefaction offers a viable transport solution.