Top energy executives from Houston, Texas, and Japan convened to advance Japan’s decarbonization goals through a “hydrogen society” initiative. Japan, which views clean hydrogen as a critical energy source, seeks international partnerships to meet its ambitious goals. The Center for Houston’s Future (CHF) and the Japan Hydrogen Association (JH2A) co-hosted the “Japan-U.S. Gulf Coast Clean Hydrogen Round Table,” gathering leaders from over 450 Japanese companies and government entities to discuss strategies for clean hydrogen development.
At the event, CHF CEO Brett Perlman and JH2A Secretary General Hiroshi Fukushima signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to formalize cooperation. The meeting, supported by Roland Berger Japan, featured discussions on U.S.-Japan energy policies, technology advancements, and social implementation efforts related to hydrogen.
Perlman emphasized the Gulf Coast’s commitment to Japan’s clean hydrogen market, noting that over 20 U.S.-based companies are engaged, spanning hydrogen suppliers, equipment providers, and trading companies. “We aim to become a global leader in decarbonization, working with Japanese businesses and governments to achieve a hydrogen-based society,” said Perlman.
Fukushima highlighted JH2A’s expanding international collaboration, noting the importance of building a hydrogen value chain in Japan. John Cypher of the Greater Houston Partnership (GHP) underscored Japan as Houston’s seventh-largest trade partner, emphasizing the strong economic relationship and collaboration potential.
Koji Toyama, Partner at Roland Berger Japan, addressed the financial challenges of hydrogen expansion, stressing the need to ensure its economic feasibility. “Roland Berger supports clients globally in the hydrogen sector and remains committed to aiding the decarbonization efforts of Japanese companies through strategic hydrogen business development.”
The Round Table is part of ongoing U.S.-Japan initiatives led by CHF, JH2A, GHP, and Roland Berger to expand the hydrogen market and realize a sustainable hydrogen society.
