Sheffield-based ITM Power, a world leader in the manufacture of hydrogen energy systems, has begun the fit-out of its new factory at Bessemer Park to house its 185 employees and meet strong international demand for its products.

The 134,000ft² factory will include an extension to the existing offices, stack manufacturing and production areas, as well as test room for factory acceptance testing of products.

It will enable the company to produce 1GW of polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) electrolysers within three years.

The programme of works will last 30 weeks, and the site is expected to be ready for occupation in the autumn of this year.

In October, ITM Power (www.itm-power.com) announced a joint venture with Linde AG to deliver hydrogen to large-scale industrial projects.

Graham Cooley, CEO, said: “This fit-out will see ITM Power undertaking ‘state of the art’ manufacturing and reducing costs and lead times to access the many opportunities arising from the joint venture with Linde.”