European Chemical Industry News & Insights

Provaris and Norwegian Hydrogen Partner to Boost EU Hydrogen Supply

At a glance
  • MOU signed to develop green hydrogen projects in the Nordics.
  • Design Concept Study to be completed by March 2023.
  • Target for export supply chain operation is 2027.
  • Focus on hydrogen production, export, and infrastructure.

Memorandum of Understanding

Provaris Energy and Norwegian Hydrogen AS have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on green hydrogen value chain projects in the Nordics. This partnership aims to accelerate the development of green hydrogen export supply chains, leveraging Provaris’ GH2 Carriers and storage solutions alongside Norwegian Hydrogen’s production and export sites.

Project Scope and Timeline

The collaboration will focus on a Design Concept Study to be completed by March 2023. This study will identify a preferred production and export site and assess the technical and economic viability of a fast-track green hydrogen supply chain connected to key ports in Germany and the Netherlands. The goal is to have an export supply chain operational by 2027.

Strategic Importance

Norway, holding 50% of the EU's hydropower reservoir capacity, is crucial for achieving the REPowerEU ambition of importing 10 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2030. The Norwegian government has confirmed its commitment to being a long-term hydrogen supplier to Europe, as stated in a joint declaration with Germany.

Focus Areas

The MOU outlines a comprehensive review of renewable power supply, hydrogen production, compression facilities, storage, and infrastructure for loading and unloading. It also includes Provaris’ H2Neo carrier and the necessary import infrastructure at identified European ports. Applications for funding through national and EU schemes will be pursued.

Market Integration

Germany and the Netherlands are key import locations, with advanced plans for hydrogen backbones and pipelines that integrate well with Provaris’ compressed hydrogen solution. The collaboration will also explore potential import hubs in the UK, leveraging Provaris’ cost-competitive H2Neo carrier for short-distance maritime transport.