- The Masshylia project will produce 5 tonnes of green hydrogen daily using a 40 MW electrolyser.
- The project will cut 15,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
- Construction is set to begin in 2022, with production starting in 2024.
- The project has applied for subsidies from French and European authorities.
Project Overview
Total and Engie have signed an agreement to develop the Masshylia project, France's largest renewable hydrogen production site, located at Total's La Mède biorefinery in Châteauneuf-les-Martigues.
Production and Environmental Impact
Powered by solar farms with a total capacity of over 100 MW, the 40 MW electrolyser will produce 5 tonnes of green hydrogen per day. This will meet the biofuel production needs at the biorefinery and avoid 15,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
Innovative Solutions
The project will implement five innovations: a digital piloting system for continuous hydrogen supply, optimized integration of photovoltaic farms, large-scale hydrogen storage, a direct current connection between a photovoltaic farm and the electrolyser, and enhanced industrial safety using 3D digital models.
Future Expansion
Beyond the initial phase, new renewable farms may be developed to increase the electrolyser's capacity to produce up to 15 tonnes of green hydrogen per day.
Support and Timeline
The project has received support from regional institutions and local actors for its potential to reduce CO2 emissions and demonstrate the economic benefits of renewable hydrogen. Construction is planned to begin in 2022, with production starting in 2024, pending financial support and public authorizations. The project has applied for subsidies from French and European authorities.
