Sumitomo Corporation, through its U.S. subsidiary Sumitomo Corporation of Americas, has made a strategic investment in Independence Hydrogen, a company in the United States that focuses on decentralized hydrogen production. Independence Hydrogen operates a facility in Virginia, recycling hydrogen into fuel cell grade for various sectors. The partnership aims to develop additional decentralized hydrogen projects, leveraging Independence Hydrogen's DeHy® business model. The collaboration with Suburban Propane and Hivers & Strivers is expected to drive growth in the hydrogen sector, with Sumitomo expressing a positive view on hydrogen development. Independence Hydrogen's approach of decentralized supply and transportation addresses reliability and cost concerns, offering advantages like quick refueling and longer range. The company's mission is to provide communities with clean, safe, and affordable hydrogen to enhance energy resilience. Sumitomo Corporation, known for its sustainable business practices, sees this investment as a step towards creating value for society in line with their long-standing business philosophy.