The technology enables floating import terminals to produce industrial-scale hydrogen from transported ammonia. Its modular design integrates with hybrid floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs) and dedicated floating hydrogen terminals, offering scalability with a hydrogen send-out capacity of up to 210,000 tonnes annually. Ammonia storage capacities range from 10,000 to 120,000 cubic meters.
Constructed at Sustainable Energy’s Norwegian Catapult Center in Stord, Norway, the ammonia cracker was developed with contributions from the Institute for Energy Technology (IFE), the University of South-East Norway, Sustainable Energy, and BASF SE. The Norwegian government funded nearly 50% of the project, contributing approximately €5.9 million.
Erik Nyheim, CEO of Höegh Evi, stated: “The floating ammonia-to-hydrogen cracker developed by Höegh Evi, Wärtsilä and partners is a game-changer for the hydrogen economy and the energy transition in Europe. Our floating terminals and cracking technology can unlock the full potential of global value chains for green hydrogen, providing European industry with a reliable supply of clean energy within this decade.”
Walter Reggente, Vice President of Wärtsilä Gas Solutions, added: “This pioneering development of the floating ammonia-to-hydrogen cracker represents a significant leap forward in our quest for sustainable energy solutions. Together with Höegh Evi and our partners, we are not only addressing the challenges of hydrogen storage and transportation but also paving the way for a more resilient and flexible energy infrastructure.”
The floating ammonia cracker supports Europe’s ambition to import 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually by 2030, as outlined in the EU’s REPower strategy. Höegh Evi is advancing several hydrogen terminal projects across Europe, aiming for operational start dates before 2030, to meet the growing demand for clean energy.
This innovation enhances the scalability and efficiency of hydrogen production, offering a flexible solution for integrating ammonia-based hydrogen into Europe’s energy grid. By leveraging floating infrastructure, Höegh Evi and Wärtsilä are contributing to a sustainable energy future, supporting industrial and environmental goals across the region.
