Shell proposes world’s largest ‘green’ hydrogen initiative

The NortH2 scheme will produce hydrogen using renewable electricity generated by an offshore wind farm in the North Sea, which could have a capacity of up to 4 GW by 2030 and 10 GW by 2040. 

It’s hoped that the project could produce approximately 800,000 tonnes of hydrogen per year by 2040 – thereby preventing the emission of roughly 7mn tonnes of CO2 per annum. 

The consortium’s plan includes a large electrolyser in the Eemshaven, where the wind energy generated would be converted into green hydrogen. The partners are also considering the possibility of placing electrolysers offshore. Given its highly developed offshore wind industry, as well as its network of ports and industrial clusters, the Netherlands is uniquely placed to build a hydrogen economy. Cas König, CEO of Groningen Seaports says that the project’s ambition is to become Europe’s largest green hydrogen chain, with the northern Netherlands at its centre. 

‘The construction of Europe’s largest green hydrogen facility in our port city is imminent,’ he says. ‘Because of this, industry can decarbonise significantly and has the ability to continue growth. Green industry in the North also makes a concrete contribution to the climate targets of the Netherlands for 2030.’ 

The companies expect to commence their 12-month feasibility study later this year. If successful, they hope to produce their first hydrogen by 2027. The project has the support of the province of Groningen and participants are seeking other industrial and energy companies to join the consortium.