Belgium-based Tree Energy Solutions (TES), the developer of an LNG and hydrogen hub in Wilhelmshaven, has signed a deal with energy firm E.ON to import green hydrogen into Germany.
Within the framework of the partnership, the companies would investigate potential joint engagements along the entire hydrogen value chain to build a source for long-term green hydrogen supply, according to a joint statement.
The statement did not provide many details regarding the cooperation.
TES, backed by investment firm AtlasInvest, recently said it aims to launch the Wilhelmshaven “green hub” in 2025 instead of 2027 as Germany looks to replace Russian natural gas supplies.
The company previously only planned to build a hydrogen hub and it now included the LNG part as well.
TES said the green hydrogen would be primarily produced from solar, wind and hydro power in countries with “abundant renewable energy sources.”
In the initial phase of 25 TWh per year of green gas import, the Wilhelmshaven hub could receive more than half a million tonnes of hydrogen, according to TES.
This would rise to 250 TWh per year and more than 5 million tonnes of hydrogen in the final stage by 2045, TES previously said.
“The ramp-up of a functioning hydrogen economy must have top priority in Germany and Europe. The partnership with TES is an important step on the way to a sustainable energy landscape while ensuring security of supply,” Patrick Lammers, COO at E.ON, said.
Paul van Poecke, founder and managing director at TES, said this long-term partnership would “allow us to combine relevant experience to accelerate the decarbonization of the energy chain.”
“Our ambition is to build the Wilhelmshaven location into a hub for international hydrogen trading and upgrade the infrastructure accordingly,” he said.