- The terminal will import green ammonia as a hydrogen carrier, operational by 2026.
- Green hydrogen demand is rising in energy, transport, and petrochemicals in the Netherlands and Germany.
- The Maasvlakte location will utilize existing infrastructure and connect to Gasunie's national hydrogen network.
- The final investment decision depends on customer contracts and necessary permits, including the EIA procedure.
Project Overview
Gasunie, HES International, and Vopak are collaborating to develop an import terminal for green ammonia as a hydrogen carrier in Rotterdam's Maasvlakte. The terminal, named ACE Terminal, is set to be operational by 2026. This initiative addresses the growing global demand for green energy import and storage.
Importance of Green Hydrogen
Green hydrogen is crucial for the future renewable energy mix, with increasing demand in the energy, transport, and petrochemical sectors in the Netherlands and Germany. The import terminal for green ammonia will play a vital role in the hydrogen supply chain, complementing hydrogen production, transport, and storage. A reliable logistics chain is essential for developing the green hydrogen market and achieving climate goals for 2030 and 2050.
Ammonia as a Hydrogen Carrier
Green ammonia, formed by reacting green hydrogen with nitrogen, allows efficient and safe large-scale hydrogen transport. It can be stored and converted back to green hydrogen or used directly as a CO2-free fuel or raw material for fertilizer production. Northwestern Europe will require large-scale green hydrogen imports to meet future demand.
Strategic Location and Infrastructure
The Maasvlakte location in Rotterdam offers strategic advantages, including existing infrastructure and logistics facilities. Vessels from around the world can discharge green ammonia, and the site provides space for an installation to convert ammonia back to hydrogen. This installation will connect to Gasunie's national hydrogen network, serving the future hydrogen market in Northwestern Europe.
Next Steps
The final investment decision will depend on customer contracts and necessary permits, including the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) procedure. A market consultation procedure will soon be launched, inviting interested parties to express interest in the supply, storage, and transshipment of green ammonia and hydrogen. Initial discussions with international market parties are already underway.
