New hydrogen import facility to develop in Port of Rotterdam

Global Energy Storage (GES) and Provaris Energy Ltd (Provaris) have entered into a collaboration agreement to develop a new hydrogen import facility at the Port of Rotterdam.

The facility will be located at the GES terminal in Rotterdam. GES is developing a multi-client, multi-product terminal capable of importing refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen. Redeliveries will be facilitated into barges, rail, trucks, and the H2 grid (HyNetwork) operated by Gasunie.

Under the collaboration, GES and Provaris will conduct a comprehensive prefeasibility study. This study aims to demonstrate the technical and economic viability of berthing and unloading Provaris’ H2Neo compressed hydrogen carriers.

Additionally, activities will involve joint marketing of the proposed facility.

Provaris will handle the transportation of hydrogen in the H2Neo carriers, while GES will manage discharge and injection into the hydrogen grid.

Both parties believe that the GES terminal in Rotterdam is an ideal site for bulk-scale import of green hydrogen. This is due to its early connection to the HyNetwork grid, serving industrial users in the Port of Rotterdam and key industrial users in Europe.

Provaris’ compressed hydrogen supply chain offers an alternative to chemical carriers from regional supply sources across Europe.

The companies aim to provide an energy-efficient and timely supply of green hydrogen to industrial users in Europe to support decarbonisation goals.

During 2024, GES and Provaris will complete prefeasibility level studies focusing on various aspects, including jetty facilities, grid connection, risk assessment, emissions, and environmental considerations.

Provaris has already made significant progress with the H2Neo hydrogen carrier, with a Prototype Tank under construction and testing underway in Norway. They aim to obtain final construction and Class approval by mid-2024.

Peter Vucins, CEO of GES commented: “This collaboration with Provaris showcases the types of partnerships that GES is pursuing to facilitate the Energy Transition through our contribution with storage and logistics solutions, at Rotterdam as well as other existing and future locations. I welcome the opportunity to work closely with Provaris to develop a cost competitive import solution for Rotterdam and European energy customers.”

Martin Carolan, CEO of Provaris Energy, says: “We are delighted to be collaborating with GES on a world-first terminal for bulk scale import of gaseous hydrogen that can accelerate the availability of green molecules for industrial users. GES has a global network and track record of terminal assets and is demonstrating leadership in the development of a bulk-terminal for hydrogen and derivatives for Europe. We look forward to the outcomes of this collaboration which can accelerate the delivery of ambitious import volumes required for the European market and support export projects under development based on the Provaris approach to the simple and energy efficient marine transport.”