Two Obayashi Corporation Representatives Honored Aotearoa Hydrogen Awards 2025 in New Zealand
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Sustainability
On May 28 and 29, 2025, the 3rd H2 2 ZERO Summit 2025 was held in Wellington, the capital of New Zealand, organized by the New Zealand Hydrogen Council. During this prominent international event, the Aotearoa (*1) Hydrogen Awards 2025 ceremony took place, where two employees of Obayashi Corporation were recognized for their outstanding contributions to the hydrogen energy sector.
The H2 2 ZERO Summit is one of the largest and most prestigious international conferences in the hydrogen energy field in New Zealand. It serves as a vital platform for government officials, industry leaders, and researchers from around the world to exchange insights, share experiences, and showcase innovations from real-world projects aimed at building a low-carbon society powered by hydrogen.
The Aotearoa Hydrogen Awards recognize outstanding achievements of individuals and organizations leading the development of a decarbonized economy through hydrogen, with awards presented in six categories (*2). This year, 46 nominees competed across six categories, with two Obayashi Corporation employees receiving top honors.
PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD
Recognition for Leadership in Building a Green Hydrogen Supply Chain
Kenichi Ando, Senior Managing Executive Officer and Head of Green Energy Division of Obayashi Corporation, has spearheaded efforts since 2016 to develop a concept for green hydrogen production using geothermal power and has led its realization. His collaboration with the Tuaropaki Trust, a Maori organization, resulted in the establishment of Halcyon Power Limited. In 2024, he also oversaw the launch of New Zealand's first green hydrogen fast refueling station, contributing significantly to the development of a green hydrogen supply chain.
His strategic foresight and commitment to sustainable energy earned him high praise and the Person of the Year Award.
FUTURE HYDROGEN LEADER AWARD (*3)
Recognition for Emerging Leadership in Shaping the Future Hydrogen Society
Aya Inagaki, Manager of the Overseas Projects Department, Green Energy Division of Obayashi Corporation, has been focusing on green hydrogen production and distribution projects in collaboration with Tuaropaki Trust. Since 2023, she has also served as a board member of the New Zealand Hydrogen Council, continuing her efforts to promote the development of the overall hydrogen industry.
Her dedication to innovation and her leadership in shaping the future of hydrogen energy were recognized with the Future Hydrogen Leader Award.
This summit, attended by around 170 participants, featured a keynote address by the Honorable Simon Watts, Minister of Energy of New Zealand, and H.E. Mr. OSAWA Makoto, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to New Zealand, as well as presentations by government officials and major companies from both New Zealand and abroad. Japanese hydrogen industry leaders, including the Japan Hydrogen Association (JH2A), also participated. A dedicated Japan session explored future hydrogen export opportunities and maritime decarbonization strategies.
Notably, progress was made in New Zealand in introducing fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen co-firing engine vehicles. Discussions on expanding the hydrogen station network, including facilities operated by the Obayashi Group, received international acclaim.
The Obayashi Group will continue to take on new challenges in the green energy field and contribute to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.
- *1 Aotearoa
Aotearoa is the Maori name for New Zealand and is recognized as one of the country's official languages. - *2 Six Categories of the Aotearoa Hydrogen Awards
The six categories are: Person of the Year Award, Future Hydrogen Leader Award, Hydrogen Transport Award, Industry Impact Award, Innovation Excellence Award, and Our People Award. - *3 FUTURE HYDROGEN LEADER AWARD
This award recognizes professionals in New Zealand's hydrogen sector who have contributed to pioneering and innovative projects, technologies, or developments. The recipient is acknowledged as champions of transformative hydrogen initiatives.