- Construction of the demonstration plant at the INOVYN site in Antwerp is scheduled to start by 2022.
- The plant aims to produce 8000 tonnes of sustainable methanol annually.
- Methanol will be produced from captured CO2 and sustainably generated hydrogen.
- The project involves a consortium of seven partners, including ENGIE, Fluxys, and Indaver.
Consortium for Sustainable Methanol Production
A consortium of seven partners, including ENGIE, Fluxys, Indaver, INOVYN, Oiltanking, Port of Antwerp, and the PMV, has been established to build a 'power-to-methanol' demonstration plant in the port of Antwerp. This initiative marks a significant step towards a sustainable, low-carbon circular port.
Project Details and Timeline
The construction of the demonstration plant at the INOVYN site in Antwerp is scheduled to start by 2022. The plant aims to produce 8000 tonnes of sustainable methanol annually, which will help avoid an equivalent volume of CO2 emissions. This methanol will be produced from captured CO2 and sustainably generated hydrogen.
Innovative Production Process
The 'power-to-methanol' project is a first for Belgium, aiming to replace fossil raw materials with sustainably produced methanol. The process involves capturing carbon dioxide through Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) and combining it with hydrogen generated from renewable electricity. This innovative approach supports the port's transition to alternative energy sources.
Roles and Expertise
Each partner in the consortium brings specific expertise to the project. ENGIE contributes knowledge of the electricity market, Oiltanking advises on logistics, and Indaver provides expertise on CO2 capture. Fluxys offers infrastructure experience and green gas certification, while the Flemish Environmental Holding Company provides part of the financing. Port of Antwerp facilitates collaboration between private companies and the government, and INOVYN supplies hydrogen and chemical expertise.
Future Prospects
The demonstration plant is expected to be operational in 2022. Future development could see increased methanol production volumes for wider industry use, including as a sustainable fuel for water and road transport. This project underscores the importance of industrial symbiosis in advancing the energy transition.
