Provaris and GES to develop Rotterdam hydrogen import terminal

Australian green hydrogen developer Provaris Energy and Global Energy Storage have entered an agreement to develop a gaseous hydrogen import facility at the GES terminal in Rotterdam, Holland.

GES is developing a multi-client, multi-product terminal in Rotterdam, able to import both refrigerated ammonia and compressed hydrogen, with redeliveries into barges, rail, truck and the H2 grid (HyNetwork) operated by Gasunie.

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

The American Bureau of Shipping has approved the design of Provaris Energy’s proposed 26,000 cubic metre H2Neo compressed hydrogen carriers.

Activities will also include the joint marketing of the proposed facility where Provaris will be responsible for the transportation of the hydrogen in the H2Neo carriers and GES responsible for the discharge and injection into the hydrogen grid.

CEO of Provaris Energy Martin Carolan said: “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.

“This collaboration…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.”

The comopanies said in a statement that Provaris’ compressed hydrogen supply chain offered a first mover and competitive alternative to chemical carriers from regional supply sources from the Nordic region and extend across the Baltics, North Sea, Iberia and down to North Africa.

CEO of GES Peter Vucins said: “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.”

During 2024 GES and Provaris will complete prefeasibility level studies focused on the jetty facilities to discharge the H2Neo carrier, along with scavenging compression, storage, HyNetwork grid connection, risk and safety, emissions, and other permitting and environmental considerations.

Provaris has advanced the H2Neo hydrogen carrier through an extensive FEED package design approval in December 2022, with a Prototype Tank under construction and testing programme underway in Norway to support a final construction approval from Class targeted for mid-2024.

Further reading:
Approval secured for Provaris compressed hydrogen transport vessel

Picture: GES