World’s first 100% hydrogen gas water heater

Renowned for their Infinity continuous hot water products, Rinnai has launched a 100% hydrogen water heater.

Rinnai NZ’s Managing Director, Ray Ferner, says the hydrogen concept model means Rinnai is ready to offer continuous hot water systems for New Zealand homes and businesses as soon as the hydrogen market and regulatory standards are established.

“This is a critical step towards a zero net carbon future and the start of bringing to market proven household gas appliances that can run on totally renewable gas.

“We all need to take action to create a sustainable future. We have been working on the next generation of gas appliances to give people the safest and best climate control and water heating solutions that run on 100% renewable gas,” Ferner says.

New Zealand is aiming for net zero CO2 emissions by 2050 and GasNZ Chief Executive, Janet Carson says renewable gases are key to achieving a net zero energy system. For hydrogen-combustion water heaters, the spread of hydrogen infrastructure is a prerequisite for achieving carbon neutrality, she says.

“Continuous hot water systems are one of the most widely used residential gas appliances in New Zealand.

While Rinnai has developed hydrogen combustion technology for water heaters, Aotearoa doesn't have the supply and infrastructure yet to connect the product.

Rinnai is currently demonstrating the hydrogen water heater in Australia. From there, the company will further enhance the technology for mass production in line with the spread of hydrogen infrastructure around the world.

Developing a concept appliance of this kind requires considerable investment, knowledge and expertise in what is required to make a durable, reliable water heater.

“This is the value of the Rinnai product, they have done this work. Rinnai have invested and taken the initiative to develop a 100% hydrogen concept appliance so they can be ready when the market is,” Carson says.