ENGIE and Equinor Launch H2BE for Low-Carbon Hydrogen in Belgium
- The H2BE project will produce low-carbon hydrogen from natural gas using ATR and CCS.
- The captured CO2 will be stored in the Norwegian North Sea.
- A feasibility study is underway for a site in Ghent.
- Operations aim to start before 2030 to meet Belgium's decarbonization targets.
Project Overview
In February, ENGIE and Equinor announced an MoU to develop low-carbon hydrogen projects. They have now launched the H2BE project to produce low-carbon hydrogen from natural gas in Belgium using autothermal reforming (ATR) technology combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS).
Belgium's Hydrogen Strategy
The H2BE project aligns with Belgium's Hydrogen Strategy, released on 29 October, aiming to decarbonize the economy. The project will help Belgium meet its decarbonization targets by producing hydrogen with a decarbonization rate above 95% and at a large scale.
Technical Details
The captured CO2 will be transported in liquid form and stored in the sub-surface of the Norwegian North Sea. The project is conducting a feasibility study for a site in the Ghent area and is in commercial talks with potential hydrogen offtakers, mainly large, hard-to-abate industries.
Infrastructure and Collaboration
Discussions are ongoing with North Sea Port for integration with port infrastructure, fitting within the "Connect 2025" strategic plan. ENGIE and Equinor have partnered with Fluxys, Belgium's independent gas transmission system operator, to develop the necessary hydrogen and CO2 infrastructure.
Future Goals
The H2BE project aims to start operations before 2030 to contribute to Belgium's interim decarbonization targets. The collaboration with Fluxys will create synergies with other hydrogen and CO2 capturing projects, reducing overall costs and supporting the development of an open access hydrogen and CO2 infrastructure.