Hydrogen at the Source? This Startup Says Yes

Fourier raises $18.5mn to deploy modular units that generate hydrogen on site, bypassing traditional infrastructure

22 Apr 2025

California-based Fourier has raised $18.5mn in a funding round led by Airbus Ventures to scale its modular hydrogen generation systems, aiming to decentralise production and lower the sector’s reliance on traditional supply chains.

Unlike conventional hydrogen production, which often involves large-scale facilities and carbon-intensive distribution, Fourier’s compact systems are designed to operate on site at locations such as data centres, transport hubs and industrial facilities. The company says this model reduces both emissions and delivery costs while improving energy security.

The funding round, which also included General Catalyst and Paramark Ventures, highlights growing investor interest in distributed hydrogen, a model in which fuel is produced and consumed locally, removing the need for pipelines or long-distance transport.

“For hydrogen to compete with traditional fuels, it has to be scalable, affordable, and right where users need it,” a Fourier spokesperson said.

Airbus Ventures’ backing signals the aerospace industry’s increasing focus on hydrogen as a path to decarbonise ground operations and potentially future flight technologies.

Fourier plans to use the new capital to expand manufacturing and begin pilot programmes across multiple sectors. The company’s systems are marketed as ready to deploy, aimed at customers seeking flexible, low-emission alternatives to traditional fuels.

Analysts say Fourier’s model could reshape parts of the hydrogen economy. “This is the kind of agile, modular thinking the hydrogen sector has been waiting for,” said Michael Cahill, a partner at Joule Capital. “It’s built for the way modern industries operate.”

Nonetheless, the startup faces challenges. Incumbent suppliers are bundling infrastructure and services to retain customers, while regulatory timelines remain uncertain in key markets.

Still, as governments and industries seek to reduce carbon output, modular hydrogen systems like Fourier’s could play a growing role in the transition, particularly in regions with limited access to large-scale energy infrastructure.