Cadiz and RIC Energy Partner for California’s Largest Hydrogen Facility

Major Green Hydrogen Initiative Announced
Cadiz, Inc. and RIC Energy have announced a significant partnership to construct California’s largest green hydrogen production facility at Cadiz Ranch in the Mojave Desert. This facility will leverage solar energy to produce industrial quantities of 100% green hydrogen, which will be distributed through existing rail, pipeline, and highway infrastructure to Southern California markets for use in zero-emission vehicles and electric generation.

Strategic Location and Resource Management
Cadiz CEO Susan Kennedy emphasized the strategic importance of the location, highlighting its extensive solar potential and abundant water resources. The facility will be built on 3,000 acres and will utilize state-of-the-art technology to ensure compliance with stringent regulations, including the IRA’s Section 45V. Cadiz will provide up to 500 acre-feet of water annually for hydrogen production, and the facility will also support Cadiz’s own operations.

Innovative Energy Solutions
Jonathan Rappe, CEO of RIC Energy North America, noted the unique advantages of the Cadiz site, which combines access to vital resources for building one of the largest self-sufficient green hydrogen facilities in the world. The facility is expected to produce 50,000 kilograms of hydrogen daily, supporting the zero-emission transportation sector and local industries reliant on fossil fuels.

Alignment with California’s Clean Energy Goals
This project aligns with California’s ambitious goal to deliver 90% clean electricity by 2035. Additionally, it is part of the Department of Energy’s Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs initiative, backed by a $12.6 billion agreement aimed at accelerating renewable hydrogen production.

Economic Impact and Job Creation
The ARCHES initiative estimates that projects like this one could create over 200,000 green jobs and generate $2.95 billion annually in economic value by 2030, while also providing health benefits from reduced pollution.