ORLEN Venture Capital (ORLEN VC) has invested in Hystar, a Norwegian company specializing in high-efficiency proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) electrolysers for large-scale hydrogen production. Hystar's patented design features membranes significantly thinner than traditional units, enhancing efficiency and reducing the cost of hydrogen generation. This investment aligns with ORLEN's strategy to produce and deploy renewable hydrogen. Hystar's technology is projected to facilitate the annual production of 1.5 GW of high-efficiency electrolysers by 2027, supporting ORLEN Group's goal of using 350,000 tons of renewable hydrogen per year by 2035. The partnership also provides ORLEN with access to expertise and collaboration opportunities for further technology development. Hystar, known for its membrane stacks and 5 MW electrolysers, has commercialized deliveries in 2022. The company's modular system allows customization for each customer, while plans for an automated production line aim to enhance capacity to 4.5 GW annually by 2031. Hystar's recent EUR 26 million grant from the European Innovation Fund, supported by venture capital including ORLEN VC's commitment, ensures operational needs until 2027. This investment marks ORLEN VC's thirteenth direct investment, demonstrating its focus on market-ready innovations that align with ORLEN's strategic objectives.