Essar Energy Transition pioneers Europe’s first hydrogen-ready power plant

Essar Energy Transition (EET) has announced the initiative of launching EET Hydrogen Power, set to be Europe’s inaugural hydrogen-ready combined heat and power plant (CHP). This strategic development is taking place at the Stanlow refinery with an ambitious completion target for 2027. The project marks a significant leap towards achieving EET Fuels’ goal of becoming the global leader in low-carbon refinery processes and EET Hydrogen’s objective to spearhead the UK’s low-carbon hydrogen production.

The plant will be constructed in two phases and is expected to reach a capacity of 125 MW, capable of producing 6,000 tonnes of steam daily. By substituting hydrocarbons with hydrogen, the facility aims to slash carbon emissions by 740,000 tonnes annually. This initiative will replace the existing boiler units at Stanlow that currently generate around 50MW, significantly enhancing the refinery’s operational sustainability.

The investment earmarked for this venture is a critical component of EET’s comprehensive $3.0 billion strategy to advance energy transition efforts in England’s North West. EET Hydrogen Power will not only serve as a crucial infrastructure for the regional HyNet industrial cluster but also set a benchmark for future industrial and power decarbonization projects across the globe.

EET encompasses several entities, including EET Fuels, which operates the Stanlow Refinery; EET Hydrogen, tasked with developing over 1.35 gigawatts of hydrogen capacity; and Stanlow Terminals Ltd, the UK’s largest independent bulk liquid storage terminal. These subsidiaries are integral to EET’s overarching strategy to innovate in biofuels and new energy solutions.

Tony Fountain, Managing Partner at Essar Energy Transition, remarked on the initiative:

“Launching EET Hydrogen Power shows the progress that Essar Energy Transition is making in delivering against its commitment to put the UK at the forefront of low-carbon energy. This project helps bring our commitment to life and demonstrates our intention to globally showcase the pathway to decarbonising vital high-emitting industries.”

Rob Wallace, CEO of EET Hydrogen Power, also commented:

“We have bold ambitions for Stanlow to become a low-carbon transition hub at the center of the HyNet Industrial Cluster. EET Hydrogen Power will be Europe’s first 100% hydrogen-ready gas-turbine plant, which will be supplied with our low-carbon hydrogen. This project will create significant benefits by contributing to regional emissions’ reduction targets.”

This initiative by EET is not just a business expansion but a transformational move towards sustainable industrial practices. By integrating hydrogen power into their operations, EET is setting a new standard for energy companies worldwide. Their proactive approach in reducing carbon footprint while driving technological innovations in hydrogen power could serve as a model for other regions aiming for similar green transitions.