European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Hydrogen Import Facility at Rotterdam Port

At a glance
  • GES and Provaris are developing a hydrogen import facility at Rotterdam's GES terminal.
  • The facility will handle refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen, connecting to the HyNetwork grid.
  • A prefeasibility study will assess the technical and economic viability of the project in 2024.
  • Provaris' H2Neo hydrogen carrier is undergoing testing in Norway, with final approval expected by mid-2024.
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Project Overview

Global Energy Storage (GES) and Provaris Energy Ltd are collaborating to develop a gaseous hydrogen import facility at the GES terminal in Rotterdam. This facility will be capable of importing both refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen, with distribution options including barges, rail, trucks, and the HyNetwork hydrogen grid operated by Gasunie.

Technical and Economic Viability

The collaboration includes a comprehensive prefeasibility study to assess the technical and economic viability of berthing and unloading Provaris’ H2Neo compressed hydrogen carriers. The study will also cover joint marketing efforts, with Provaris handling hydrogen transportation and GES managing discharge and grid injection.

Strategic Importance

The GES terminal in Rotterdam is strategically positioned for bulk-scale import of green hydrogen, benefiting from early connection to the HyNetwork grid. This setup aims to supply industrial users in the Port of Rotterdam and across Europe, offering a competitive alternative to chemical carriers from regions like the Nordics, Baltics, North Sea, Iberia, and North Africa.

Future Developments

In 2024, GES and Provaris will complete prefeasibility studies focusing on jetty facilities, scavenging compression, storage, grid connection, risk and safety, emissions, and environmental considerations. Provaris has advanced its H2Neo hydrogen carrier through a FEED package design approval, with a prototype tank under construction and testing in Norway, targeting final construction approval by mid-2024.

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