HAROPA PORT, one of the leading port authorities, has joined forces with renewable energy specialist VERSO ENERGY to establish an industrial unit dedicated to the production of low-carbon hydrogen and synthetic fuels.
The envisioned site, located near Petit-Couronne on HAROPA PORT-owned land, aims to contribute significantly to the local industrial ecosystem’s security and growth. With an anticipated launch in 2029, the project is set to play a pivotal role in advancing decarbonization initiatives in the industrial, air, and sea transport sectors.
At the heart of the initiative is the production of hydrogen utilizing water electrolysis, with a planned capacity of up to 350 MW. This translates to an annual output exceeding 50,000 tonnes of hydrogen. The substantial €500 million investment will not only address the growing demand for sustainable fuels but also spearhead the drive towards a low-carbon industrial landscape.
In tandem with hydrogen production, the project encompasses the creation of a unit dedicated to synthesizing fuels from captured and recycled CO2. This dual-pronged approach is expected to generate approximately 150 direct jobs and an additional 250 indirect jobs, providing a significant boost to the local economy.
The strategic placement of the production unit underscores its crucial role in supporting the decarbonization goals of both HAROPA PORT and the broader port of Rouen. As ports worldwide grapple with the imperative of reducing carbon emissions, the project positions itself as a pivotal lever in achieving these ambitious targets.
