FFI Holmaneset -Green Ammonia Production to fill the GAP in Europe’s energy supply-

Introduction

FFI Holmaneset – Green Ammonia Production to fill the GAP in Europe’s energy supply

The GAP project will lead the way in green ammonia (NH3) production for Europe with a large-scale production plant in Norway. Using renewable energy from the Norwegian transmission grid, electrolysis will be used to produce approximately 226 kilotonnes per year (kt/yr) of liquid green ammonia. First production is targeted for 2027 and the green ammonia will be shipped to domestic and European markets. Relative greenhouse gas (GHG) emission avoidance is expected to be 100% compared to the reference scenario.

Project Opportunity

The project presents a significant opportunity to contribute to Europe’s mission to transition to a clean energy economy, creating one of the first green ammonia value chains in Europe and kickstarting the green ammonia market.

Economic Shift

Expanding the deployment of existing technologies to a commercial installation will shift the economics of green hydrogen and ammonia production towards a sustainable pathway.

Demand and Competition

Whilst there is strong demand for green hydrogen derivatives such as ammonia, the price gap with fossil alternatives means that the technology has not yet reached a scale and maturity where it can compete. This project seeks to bridge that gap to help propel the value chain onto a viable footing.

Technical Specifications

The 300 megawatt (MW) Holmaneset plant will run a 280MW alkaline water electrolysis (AWE) using hydropower and water. The total expected production of green ammonia during operation is expected to exceed 1,125,000 tonnes, resulting in a total expected greenhouse gas emission avoidance of more than 1.7 million tonnes CO2 equivalent.

Versatility of Ammonia

As this project will demonstrate, ammonia is not only a versatile fuel but also an energy carrier for long-distance transport of hydrogen.

Contribution to EU Targets

The project directly contributes to the REPowerEU target for an increase in the renewable share for hydrogen used in industry. Establishing a large, integrated green hydrogen and ammonia production facility and related value chain will help many EU industries enhance their competitiveness on their path to net zero.

Support for Climate Neutrality

The project will also support the fast transition to climate neutrality as set out in the EU’s Green Deal Industrial Plan.

Community Impact

The production facilities will contribute to increased employment in the small community of Svelgen in Bremanger, Western Norway, with an estimate of 35-70 jobs directly linked to operation.

Indirect Employment Opportunities

There will also be indirect employment opportunities through the contracting of local suppliers.

Future Potential

In addition, the region has the potential for future ammonia offtake, with a strong maritime industry, shipbuilding, supply bases, and shipping companies. The oxygen emitted from the production process is also suitable for use by the fish farming industry in the region.