North America’s largest hydrogen plant is set to be built in Lancaster, California, by Element Resources. The $1.85 billion Lancaster Clean Energy Center (LCEC) will be North America’s biggest hydrogen production facility. Located 70 miles north of Los Angeles, construction is expected to begin later this year. The project will run entirely on on-site solar power and groundwater. It will not rely on external electricity or water sources. CEO Steve Meheen said the facility will only use a fraction of the water once used for farming. Crops like carrots and onions previously grew on the land. With long-duration battery storage, the plant will operate 24/7. It will produce 22,000 tons of green hydrogen yearly. The fuel will serve public transit, trucking, ports, and rail. Element will own and operate the facility, supplying hydrogen to a public utility. The plant is expected to start operations by mid-2027
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Significance of North America’s Largest Hydrogen Plant
North America’s largest hydrogen plant holds major environmental and economic significance. It aligns with California’s aggressive push for clean energy. The LCEC supports decarbonization in the transport and energy sectors. It will help cities and industries meet state climate targets. The project also received $30.5 million in state tax credits under California Jobs First. When completed, it will power city buses, port vehicles, and even planes with green hydrogen. The scope extends across transit systems, utility operations, and logistics. The facility will use hydrogen-powered, zero-emission trucks for distribution. Partners include the City of Lancaster, the ARCHES hydrogen network, and several state energy groups. Moreover, North America’s largest hydrogen plant is not just about local impact. It demonstrates scalable hydrogen solutions for North America. If successful, Element may build a second plant in Boron, California. This could expand California’s clean hydrogen infrastructure further.
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