Port of Antwerp is starting an ambitious new project, as it will gather various players in the port area to promote the sustainable production of methanol. The Port considers methanol an important raw material, and for this reason it took the next step in the transition to alternative energy sources and a carbon-neutral port.
In addition, the Port of Antwerp focuses on innovation as well, which will be important to the success and economic feasibility of this project. This will be done by combining different activities that already exist within the port platform such as electricity generation, the fuel industry and the chemical industry. The project will be a ‘first’ for Belgium.
Methanol has multiple uses in the chemical industry, as well as many applications outside of it.
With such a large chemical industry inside the port area, this substance is essential for the day-to-day operation of the port. Methanol is the starting point for all sorts of chemical processes used on a daily basis by the industrial players in the port
the Port informed.
In fact, the port of Antwerp uses about 300,000 tonnes of methanol per year for chemical processes and fuel production.
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Nonetheless, this fuel is obtained from fossil sources that can ultimately run out. By introducing a new production process, the Port of Antwerp is adopting taking practical steps towards making the port more sustainable. This means that it will produce methanol from waste CO2 and sustainably generated hydrogen, according to Didier Van Osselaer, project manager at Port of Antwerp. Namely, the waste CO2 will be collected by a new process called Carbon Capture and Utilisation (CCU) in which at least some of the CO2 emissions are recovered. This CO2 will be then combined with hydrogen generated on a sustainable basis using green energy in a new electrolysis plant.
To make this project a reality, the Port of Antwerp is bringing various experts together:
- ENGIE;
- Oiltanking;
- Indaver;
- Vlaamse Milieuholding (VMH);
- Helm-Proman.
These companies have all declared their support for this project, and several knowledge institutes have also committed themselves. ENGIE will contribute its knowledge of the electricity market, Oiltanking will advice on the logistical aspects of methanol production and storage, while Indaver will offer expertise on collection of CO2. Helm-Proman will be responsible for finding markets for the methanol that is produced, while VMH will be responsible for at least part of the financing. As for the Port of Antwerp, it will be the bridge between the public and private sectors.
Port of Antwerp CEO Jacques Vandermeiren, stated on this occasion:
With this innovative project we aim to smooth the path for alternative energy sources in the port of Antwerp. I am proud that we are able to sign this collaboration agreement today with five crucial partners from among others the electricity, fuel and chemical industries. Our role as Port Authority is to bring people from different sectors together, in order to face the challenges of tomorrow. Today marks yet another step in the right direction
