MHIET Unveils 450kW Gas Cogeneration System with Hydrogen Co-Firing Capacity

Tokyo, Japan – On July 4, 2025, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Engine & Turbocharger, Ltd. (MHIET), a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, announced the launch of its new SGP M450 gas cogeneration system, which is capable of co-firing with hydrogen. This innovative system, developed in collaboration with Toho Gas Co., Ltd., allows for a hydrogen co-firing rate of up to 15% by volume while maintaining a power output of 450 kW. The announcement comes as part of MHI's ongoing commitment to achieving carbon neutrality by 2040.

The SGP M450 system has undergone extensive demonstration testing, with over 500 hours of operation conducted at the Toho Gas Technology Research Institute in Tokai, Aichi Prefecture. According to a report published by MHIET, the tests confirmed the system's reliability in hydrogen mixing and its ability to reduce CO2 emissions significantly. Various simulated operating patterns were applied to ensure the system's capability to respond to fluctuations in power demand while maintaining stable operation.

"The results from the demonstration testing confirmed that there is no risk of abnormal combustion, and the system can be operated similarly to the existing city gas mono-firing models," stated Mr. Kenji Yamamoto, General Manager of MHIET. This dual capability allows operators to switch between city gas and hydrogen modes seamlessly, enhancing the system's resilience and reliability, particularly during power outages.

The technology behind this cogeneration system involves modifications to the fuel gas and engine control systems of the existing GS6R2 city gas engine. The capability for hydrogen co-firing is significant in the context of Japan's energy transition strategy, which aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and increase the use of renewable energy sources.

Additionally, MHIET is offering a "Hydrogen Ready" package, enabling the system to run solely on city gas at the time of installation while ensuring that necessary equipment for hydrogen co-firing is pre-installed. This approach is designed to facilitate a smoother transition to hydrogen usage in the future, catering to customers' evolving energy needs.

The development of such cogeneration systems is vital for achieving carbon neutrality, as they contribute to energy conservation and serve as distributed energy resources. Furthermore, their ability to maintain operations during emergencies positions them as a critical component in enhancing the resilience of energy infrastructure in Japan.

MHI Group's commitment to sustainability is evident as it continues to promote the broader adoption of hydrogen technologies and distributed power generation systems. The company’s efforts align with global initiatives aimed at reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable future.

Dr. Hiroshi Tanaka, an energy policy expert at the University of Tokyo, commented, “MHIET’s new cogeneration system represents a significant step forward in Japan’s energy landscape, particularly as the country seeks to balance energy security with environmental sustainability. The integration of hydrogen into existing energy systems is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”

In conclusion, the launch of the SGP M450 gas cogeneration system marks a pivotal moment for MHIET and the broader energy sector in Japan. As the nation moves towards a low-carbon future, innovations such as this will play an essential role in transforming energy use and enhancing resilience against climate impacts. MHIET's ongoing research and development efforts highlight the importance of technological advancements in addressing global energy challenges and supporting the transition to a sustainable energy economy.