August 14, 2024 [H2 View]- Prumo Logística and Fuella have secured the first area reservation contract for a newly licensed low-carbon hydrogen and derivatives hub in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Located at the Port of Açu, the hub covers one million square metres, and this initial agreement will secure a “significant area” of the facility. The aim is to develop renewable and low-carbon hydrogen connected to ammonia and methanol units, with the produced hydrogen exported or used at the port.

The two companies also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish the development of the hub, based on phases and schedules. They expect to implement a 520MW ammonia plant, based on electrolysis, which will have the potential to produce 400,000 tonnes of hydrogen carrier per year.

H2 View understands that a final investment decision for the green ammonia plant is forecasted within the next four years, before the start of production in 2030.

The land contract and MOU were executed with the support of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges International, a subsidiary of the second-largest port in Europe – a strategic partner of the Port of Açu.

It’s anticipated that this will enable a new export corridor for green ammonia from Brazil to Europe.

“The development of this plant will contribute to global efforts in reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable energy,” explained Mauro Andrade, Executive Director of Business Development at Prumo.

“We have prepared ecosystem and competitive advantages for the production of green hydrogen and ammonia, both for export and for supply to the Brazilian domestic market.”

Dr Thomas Helms, Managing Director Business and Corporate Development at Fuella, claimed this is a landmark agreement for the Norwegian company, expanding its portfolio internationally to “highly competitive and attractive regions.”

Dr Helm added, “We believe that Porto do Açu is a fantastic location and partner for us. The winning factors for us were not only the site and infrastructure in place, but also the dedication, competence and support of the team.”

In June (2024), Eletrobras announced plans to produce low-carbon hydrogen from the port after securing a deal with Prumo, the port operator and infrastructure firm.

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