Over €1.3 million from Cefmof for hydrogen research at the University of Jyväskylä

The initiative reflects a strategic partnership between JYU and Cefmof to develop sustainable societies and mobility systems through interdisciplinary research and education. The programme will enhance the university’s capacity in hydrogen economy research and help build long-term cooperation between Finnish and Japanese academic and industrial partners.

“We sincerely thank the Central Finland Mobility Foundation for this significant funding to strengthen hydrogen research at the University of Jyväskylä. This is a remarkable new initiative that promotes sustainable development and innovation, while also reinforcing collaboration between different actors. With our new and innovative research funder Cefmof, we can build a long-term partnership that contributes to a more sustainable future,” says JYU Rector Jari Ojala.

Cefmof is a non-profit foundation established by the City of Jyväskylä, TOYOTA GAZOO Racing World Rally Team, and Toyota Mobility Foundation. Cefmof’s purpose is to, among other things, contribute to the achievement of a carbon-neutral, sustainable and diverse society, promote a more mobile society, and participate in projects that contribute to these goals. Cefmof is committed to supporting research and education, and for this purpose, may cooperate with universities to achieve its non-profit purpose. Under this objective, Cefmof funds JYU's program. Cefmof is a non-profit organisation operating for the benefit of the public.

“One of our goals is to promote and accelerate interdisciplinary research, projects and innovation in hydrogen, hydrogen technology and the hydrogen economy. We also consider international cooperation between Finland and Japan highly important, as the countries share similar societal challenges and offer clear synergies. “With this funding, we can strengthen the region’s hydrogen-related research and innovation activities and support the development of Central Finland into a centre for hydrogen research. We want to thank the university for the swift and flexible collaboration,” says Haruka Arai, Executive Director of Cefmof.

The programme will focus on developing novel and energy-efficient hydrogen production methods, particularly by utilising biomass and industrial side streams. The research will support the creation of a sustainable and carbon-neutral mobility ecosystem by combining expertise in energy, materials science, circular economy, and business innovation.