© Plug Power

Plug Power and Olin Corporation have commissioned a new 15-ton-per-day hydrogen liquefaction facility in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, through their joint venture, Hidrogenii. Among the largest of its kind in North America, the plant will liquefy hydrogen produced as a by-product of Olin’s chlor-alkali operations. The liquid hydrogen (LH2) will be distributed by Plug Power across the U.S., serving its material handling customers and leveraging its spot market pricing model.

Boost to Plug’s Production Network

The Louisiana facility increases Plug’s total U.S. LH2 capacity to 40 TPD, joining existing sites in Woodbine, Georgia (15 TPD), and Charleston, Tennessee (10 TPD). The location, about 125 kilometers from New Orleans, strengthens Plug’s ability to support regional hydrogen logistics and reduce reliance on external suppliers.

“This Louisiana plant, a milestone in expanding our U.S. hydrogen network, bolsters our financial position by leveraging a dependable, cost-effective hydrogen source,” said Plug CEO Andy Marsh.

Strategic Alignment for Olin

Ken Lane, President and CEO of Olin, said the project reflects the company’s broader growth strategy: “This joint venture is consistent with Olin’s value-first approach to build on our existing leading positions through high-value adjacencies or bolt-ons that align with our capital allocation framework.”

Hidrogenii was formed in 2022 to design, build, and operate the St. Gabriel facility. The site is expected to play a key role in Plug’s plans to expand a national green hydrogen network.

Financial Pressure Remains for Plug

Despite operational progress, Plug continues to face significant financial challenges. The company posted a $2.1 billion loss in 2024, with cumulative net losses totaling $6.6 billion. Its stock hit an all-time low of $0.92, risking delisting from Nasdaq if it remains under $1 for 30 consecutive trading days.

Hydrogen as a By-Product

Olin’s hydrogen comes from its chlor-alkali process, where salt water is split into chlorine, caustic soda, and hydrogen. This integration gives Hidrogenii a steady hydrogen supply without the need for new electrolyzers.