Enapter AG, a German greentech company specializing in anion exchange membrane (AEM) electrolysers, has received a pilot order worth approximately EUR 0.5 million from a US drone manufacturer. The order includes AEM electrolysers from the 4.1 series, scheduled for delivery in the fourth quarter of 2026. These electrolysers will be integrated into mobile, all-terrain refuelling systems, allowing hydrogen to be produced directly at the point of operation using only water and solar power, without requiring a grid connection.
This approach eliminates the need for complex transport and storage of hydrogen in large compressed gas cylinders, which has been a major barrier to operating hydrogen-powered drones in remote areas. Compared to battery-electric propulsion, hydrogen offers drones significantly longer flight and mission times, as well as rapid refuelling. The mobile refuelling units enable drones to operate far from existing infrastructure, making them ideal for applications such as surveillance, delivery, and emergency response in off-grid locations.
The order is structured as a pilot project, but it opens up a new field of application for Enapter's modular AEM technology. The compact footprint, robust operation, and scalability—achieved by adding more modules—make the system well-suited for the growing drone market, which demands long range and extended flight times. According to Enapter, the global market for such drones is expanding rapidly, driven by both commercial and defence sectors.
Dr Jürgen Laakmann, CEO of Enapter AG, commented: “This order underlines how far the applications of our technology reach beyond classic industrial use. In this case hydrogen is generated flexibly where it is needed—free of complex supply chains and of any fuel logistics. That is exactly what our modular, low-maintenance AEM technology was built for. We see considerable growth potential in mobile refuelling solutions and are pleased to be developing this field together with a technologically leading customer.”
The significance of this order extends beyond a single transaction. For the drone industry, it demonstrates a viable pathway to overcome the logistical hurdles that have constrained hydrogen-powered drones. For the broader energy sector, it showcases the versatility of green hydrogen production in decentralised, off-grid applications. Enapter's AEM technology does not rely on expensive and rare raw materials such as iridium, and its modular design allows for efficient, scalable hydrogen production even when solar and wind power fluctuate. This makes it an attractive option for remote and mobile operations.
Enapter already has thousands of AEM electrolysers in use at more than 360 customers across over 55 countries. The company's technology is positioned to support the transition to clean energy by enabling local, on-demand hydrogen production. As the drone market continues to grow, the demand for mobile refuelling solutions is likely to increase, potentially making this pilot project a stepping stone to larger contracts. For Enapter, this order validates the commercial viability of its technology in emerging applications and could lead to significant revenue growth if the pilot proves successful.
For business leaders, this development signals a shift toward decentralised energy infrastructure, where fuel is produced at the point of use, reducing dependence on traditional supply chains. It also highlights the growing convergence of renewable energy, electrolysis, and mobility sectors, creating new opportunities for innovation and investment.
