The start of green ammonia production at JGC Holdings Corporation’s plant, using KBR’s K-GreeN technology, marks a major milestone in Japan’s push toward a clean energy future. 

 

The facility, sponsored by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO), a national R&D agency, was successfully commissioned in early 2026, with early production now underway.

 

The project is the result of close collaboration between JGC and KBR, two key players in the green ammonia space. JGC led engineering and construction, and now owns and operates the plant, while KBR licensed its technology and supplied proprietary equipment.

 

“Delivering one of the world’s first green ammonia plants shows what’s possible when industry leaders unite behind innovation. By combining KBR’s proven ammonia synthesis technology with advanced electrolyzers, nitrogen generation, and smart energy storage, we’re demonstrating that reliable, renewable based ammonia is not just the future, it’s here today,” Hari Ravindran, SVP and Global Head, KBR Technology Solutions.

 

The project began in 2022 with the award of the technology contract, followed by a two-year engineering and construction phase led by JGC, culminating in commissioning and initial production in 2026.

 

At the facility, hydrogen is generated using alkaline electrolyzers supplied by Asahi Kasei, powered by a nearby photovoltaic plant and grid electricity. Liquefied nitrogen is delivered by tanker trucks. At full capacity, the plant produces 4 metric tons per day of green ammonia, intended for use in DeNOx applications in power plants.

 

The site also features an Integrated Control System developed by JGC and Asahi Kasei, working alongside KBR’s K-GreeN Advanced Process Control and proprietary equipment. These systems enable fully dynamic operation, allowing the plant to rapidly adjust to fluctuations in solar power input.