Cadiz and RIC Energy to Develop Mojave Desert's First Green Hydrogen Facility, Targeting Clean Energy for California

Cadiz and RIC Energy join forces to build a solar-powered green hydrogen facility in California’s Mojave Desert, producing up to 50,000 kg of clean hydrogen daily for zero-emission transportation and power generation.

In a landmark partnership, Cadiz Inc. (California water solutions company) and RIC Energy (global renewable energy company) have announced plans to establish a large-scale green hydrogen facility at Cadiz Ranch in California’s Mojave Desert. The facility will be fueled entirely by solar energy, marking a significant step toward sustainable energy production and zero-emission solutions for Southern California.

The Cadiz Ranch location, with its intersecting rail lines, pipelines, and highways, is strategically positioned to distribute hydrogen efficiently across Southern California. Cadiz Inc. will provide the necessary land and up to 500 acre-feet of water per year to support RIC Energy’s solar-powered production of 100% green hydrogen. Once operational, the facility will support California’s clean energy targets by providing up to 50,000 kilograms of green hydrogen daily for zero-emission transportation and other industries aiming to replace fossil hydrogen.

A Fully Off-Grid, Self-Sufficient Facility

Plans for the green hydrogen facility encompass up to 3,000 acres of Cadiz Ranch land, dedicated to photovoltaic (PV) solar arrays to power the hydrogen production. The project is designed to be entirely off-grid, with on-site electricity storage and equipment for hydrogen compression and liquefaction. Hydrogen produced here will be transported by rail and road, catering to a range of applications from fuel cell vehicles to industrial power generation.

In addition to transportation, the location offers potential future connectivity for pipelines to Los Angeles, creating a direct link to one of California’s largest urban centers. Cadiz Inc. may also use the green hydrogen and solar energy produced to power its water and groundwater banking operations at the site, making the facility self-sustaining and resource-efficient.

Supporting California’s Transition to a Zero-Emission Economy

This partnership highlights California’s commitment to green hydrogen as a vital resource in achieving its clean energy goals. By providing green hydrogen produced solely from renewable solar energy, the facility aligns with California’s vision of replacing fossil-based hydrogen with sustainable alternatives. The project is expected to support the state’s zero-emission vehicle targets and bolster industries transitioning from fossil fuels.

This innovative facility not only demonstrates the potential of green hydrogen but also brings large-scale, renewable energy production to the Mojave Desert, setting a precedent for off-grid hydrogen projects worldwide.