The parties have signed a memorandum of understanding to study the feasibility of a 250-MW water electrolysis facility to produce up to 45,000 tons of green hydrogen yearly using renewable energy. It would be the largest of its kind in Europe. The refinery currently uses hydrogen made from hydrocarbons, to desulphurize products. Replacing this entirely with green hydrogen could potentially result in a reduction of 350,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year based on current circumstances.
Green hydrogen hub
Nouryon would build and operate the facility based on its leadership position in sustainable electrochemistry. The Port of Rotterdam would facilitate local infrastructure and investigate options for further development of a green hydrogen hub in the area. The partners intend to take a final investment decision on the project in 2022.
Ruben Beens, CEO of BP Netherlands said: ‘BP is committed to advance a low carbon future. The use of green hydrogen, made from water with renewable energy, has the potential to deliver significant emissions reductions at Rotterdam.’
Knut Schwalenberg, Managing Director Industrial Chemicals at Nouryon, added: ‘This partnership builds on our expertise in electrolysis technology to open up new value chains. With green hydrogen, we can provide sustainable solutions to our customers ranging from low-carbon fuels and industrial processes to new forms of circular chemistry.’
Allard Castelein, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam, commented: ‘This 250-MW electrolyser is a key proof point that Rotterdam has the ability to be a frontrunner in the energy transition, which is an important differentiator for the port industry.’
Nouryon recently announced that it will also build a 100 MW hydrogen installation in the Amsterdam region, together with Tata Steel and Port of Amsterdam.
