European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Rotterdam Port Authority Allocates Site for 1 GW Green Hydrogen Plant

At a glance
  • The Maasvlakte site will host a 1 GW green hydrogen plant, ready by 2028.
  • Rotterdam aims for 2-2.5 GW of electrolysis by 2030, contributing to the national 4 GW target.
  • The IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm Zone Beta will supply 2 GW of electricity.
  • Electrolysis will split water into hydrogen and oxygen, producing green hydrogen.

Development of Green Hydrogen Plant

The Port of Rotterdam Authority is developing an 11ha site on the Maasvlakte for a large green hydrogen plant. This initiative aligns with the upcoming tender for the IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm, expected later this year. The plant aims to be operational by 2028.

Integration with Wind Energy

The Minister for Climate and Energy is encouraging the integration of wind energy into the energy system. Producing hydrogen directly on the coast avoids additional load on the high-voltage network. The IJmuiden Ver Wind Farm Zone Beta will supply 2 GW of electricity, which will be converted into hydrogen through electrolysis.

Capacity and Future Plans

Several companies are planning to build electrolysers with capacities of 200 to 250 MW at the Maasvlakte. The Port Authority aims to achieve 2 to 2.5 GW of electrolysis by 2030, contributing to the national target of 4 GW. The new hydrogen plant will be five times larger than current projects, with a capacity of 1 GW.

Strategic Location

The site is strategically located next to Tennet’s Amaliahaven high-voltage substation and a new hydrogen pipeline, facilitating efficient transport of hydrogen to customers. The proximity to the Evides water pipeline and potential connections to regional heat networks further enhance its strategic value.

Regulatory and Zoning Considerations

The Ministry of Economic Affairs is promoting system integration in the IJmuiden Ver Zone Beta tender. The Port Authority is consulting with the municipality and DCMR to amend the zoning plan, currently designated for container storage, to accommodate hydrogen production.