Low Carbon Pulse Edition 39

Click here to the Long Form Version of Edition 39, covering each news item in this Short Form Version in more detail, and other news items

Click here for the First Compendium of Low Carbon Pulse (containing Editions 1 to 28, covering October 6, 2020 to October 5, 2021), here for the Second Compendium of Low Carbon Pulse (containing Editions 29 to 38, covering October 7, 2021 to March 31, 2022).

Content of Edition 39:

Clicking on the contents list will take the reader to the section clicked:

Legal, Policy Setting and Regulatory highlights:

IEA publications during April:

• On April 1, 2022, the International Energy Agency (IEA) published Direct Air Capture – A key technology for net-zero (DAC Study). The publication provides a helpful guide to one means of carbon dioxide removal (CDR) from the atmosphere. 
• On April 17, 2022, the IEA published its Sustainable Recovery Tracker – Monitoring Progress towards sustainable recoveries from the Covid-19 crisis, with the latest update of its Sustainable Recovery Tracker.
• On April 15, 2022, the IEA published its Gas Market Report, Q2-Analysis, including Global Gas Review 2021. The key finding from the report is that during the balance of 2022 global demand for natural gas is expected to decline slightly (50 billion m³, equivalent to ½ of the US exports of LNG during 2021), as a result of the disruption caused by the conflict in Ukraine. 
• On April 20, 2022, the IEA published its Belgium 2022 – Energy Policy Review Report (the Belgium Report). The headlines are that Belgium needs to develop the means to increase the rate of reduction of GHG emissions and to reduce its reliance on energy imports.

IRENA:

After a busy March 2022 for the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), April 2022 was a little quieter in terms of the number of publications, but that which was published was helpful and weighty:

• On March 14, 2022, the IRENA Coalition For Action published Decarbonising End-Use Sectors: Green Hydrogen Certification (Certification Paper), which provides 10 recommendations, none of which is surprising. 
• On April 11, 2022, IRENA published Renewable Capacity Statistics 2022, with a helpful three page summary Renewable capacity highlights.
• On April 11, 2022, IRENA published data detailing installed renewable electrical energy Renewable Capacity Statistics 2022. While the content of the data is not surprising, the data is a helpful reference. 
• On April 19, 2022, IRENA published Grid Codes for Renewable Powered Systems. The publication is an update on the IRENA publication from 2016, Scaling Up Variable Renewable Power: The Role of Grid Codes. 

European Commission's plans to publish technical regulations:

On April 21, 2022, it was reported widely that on May 18, 2022, the EC intends to publish technical regulations that will provide the parameters by which hydrogen will be classified as renewable under the EU RED II. Edition 40 of Low Carbon Pulse will consider the parameters. 

Denmark proposes corporate carbon tax:

On April 22, 2022, Reuters reported that the Danish Government proposes to introduce a uniform carbon tax - a levy of 1,125 Danish crowns (USD 164.21) per tonne of CO₂ equivalent. It is understood that the carbon tax will be applicable to the energy sector and heavy industries for the most part. 

McKinsey & Co:

On April 26, 2022, McKinsey & Co published its Global Energy Perspective 2022. The key headline is that if all countries implement their nationally determined contributions (NDC's) there will be a 1.7^OC increase in average global temperatures: "To keep the 1.5OC pathway in sight, even more ambitious acceleration [in GHG emission reduction] is needed". 

Climate change reported and explained:

Methane emissions at highest levels: 

• On April 7, 2022, the US National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued Increase in atmospheric methane set another record during 2021 – Carbon dioxide levels also record a big jump. 
  
  The following graphs illustrates key dynamics reported by the NOAA, critically the (steepening) upward trend. See graphic titled Global Monthly Mean CH₄ and Global methane concentration.

• On April 7, 2022, The Washington Post published an excellent article Methane emissions jumped by record amount in 2021, NOAA. The most sobering point in the article is that: "The effect of carbon dioxide emissions is cumulative. About 40 per cent of the Ford Model T emissions from 1911 are still in the atmosphere today", illustrating, succinctly, the criticality of the accelerated progress towards NZE. Editions 15, 24, 27, 28, 29, 34 and 35 of Low Carbon Pulse have background.

Methane Reduction and Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR):

There is an ever increasing focus on CDR. The IPCC WGIII Report has brought into even sharper focus the need for CH₄ reduction and CDR. The McKinsey & Co led Frontier initiative is illustrative of both the awareness of the need, and the means to addressing the need, for acceleration of CDR. As announced, the Frontier initiative comprises an advance market commitment (AMC) of USD 925 million (over eight years) to accelerate CDR solutions and technologies.

Middle East including GCC Countries:

ENOWA HIDC:

On April 1, 2022, ENOWA announced that it had established the Hydrogen Innovation and Development Center (HIDC). The HIDC is intended to contribute to the objective of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) to achieve energy carrier diversification, and as such allow the KSA to become a global clean energy leader. 

Oman considers Green Steel:

On April 4, 2022, the Oman Daily Observer reported that Hydrogen Rise AG had "embarked on a strategy to support the production of 'green steel' for the first time in the Sultanate of Oman".

Oman progresses with the Oman Green Energy Hub (OGEH):

On April 5, 2022, it was announced that Worley had been appointed to undertake a concept feasibility study for the OGEH. Edition 18of Low Carbon Pulse have background. 

Helios Green Light: 

On April 5, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported (under Acwa Power consortium signs $900m EPC contract for Neom hydrogen project) that Neom Green Hydrogen had signed an EPC Contract with Air Products, under which Air Products Middle East Industrial Gases is to undertake work in the KSA and Air Products is to undertake work beyond the borders of the KSA. On April 8, 2022, al-Arabiya news reported that Snam had contracted for the supply of equipment and plant in the context of the development of the Helios Project. 

Progress on Helios Industries' KIZAD project: 

On April 8, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported (under Studies completed for $1 bn Abu Dhabi green hydrogen and ammonia project) that financial and technical feasibility studies had been completed for Helios Industries in respect of the Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia project to be located in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi (KIZAD). Editions 18 & 25 of Low Carbon Pulse have background. 

OPWP proceeds with W-to-E:

On April 8, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported that Oman Power & Water Procurement Company (OPWP) was seeking to appoint a technical adviser to advise on the development of the USD 1 billion waste-to-energy facility to be located in Barka, Oman. OPWP has recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Oman Environmental Service Holding Company (be'ah).

Masdar (Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company) Kyrgyz Government MOU:

On April 15, 2022, Masdar announced that it had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Kyrgyzstan Government to work together to develop up to 1 GW of hydroelectric and photovoltaic solar projects. 

Photovoltaic solar on the near horizon:

On April 19, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported that Acwa Power (KSA utility corporation) is developing plans for two photovoltaic solar projects, Rabigh (300 MW) and Al Shuaiba (2 GW), having projected combined installed capacity of 2.3 GW.

Green Ammonia Certification:

On April 20, 2022, hydrogen-central.com reported that TÜV Rheinland (a global leading technical service provider) had announced the issue of the First Green Hydrogen and Green Certificate Globally to Green Hydrogen & Chemicals SPC for the production of Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia from the project being developed by ACME Group and Scatec ASA (see Edition 37 of Low Carbon Pulse).

Landfills to be mined:

On April 20, 2022, rechargenews.com reported that New York based H₂-Industries had signed a memorandum of understanding with the Oman Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) which contemplates the development of a USD 1.4 billion waste-to-hydrogen production facility in Oman. As reported, the feedstock for the production of hydrogen will be "mined from existing landfills" (the urban-ore-body). 

Africa:

Sovereign Wealth Funds align:

On April 4, 2022, energy-utilities.com, reported that The Egyptian Sovereign Fund of Egypt and the Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global had signed a framework agreement, to which Scatec (leading Norwegian renewable electrical energy corporation) is also a party, under which the parties will target the development of green projects in nine African countries - Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Ghana, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda.

Namibia and Germany Joint Communique of intent:

On April 18, 2022, it was announced that the Director General of the Namibia's National Planning Commission, Obeth M. Kandjoze, and the German Federal Minister for Education and Research, Anja Karlicek, agreed to establish a partnership between Namibia and Germany, and signed a Joint Communique of Intent (JoI). 

The JoI notes:

"Germany will provide up to €40 million in funding from the economic stimulus package for solar power [harbouring great potential in Namibia] thanks to over 3,500 hours of sunshine per year .. We therefore think that one kg of H2 from Namibia will cost between €1.50 and €2.00."

Editions  26, 30, and 34 of Low Carbon Pulse provide details about the plans to develop Green Hydrogen capacity.

Egyptian Future Fuel Hub-on-Hub:

AMEA Power to produce Green Ammonia in Egypt for export:

On April 22, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported that AMEA Power had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to produce Green Ammonia for export from Ain Sokhna Industrial Zone, Egypt. The MOU was signed with the General Authority for Suez Canal Economic Zone, The Sovereign Fund of Egypt, the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, and the New and Renewable Energy Authority. As reported, the Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia production facility will produce 390,000 metric tonnes of Green Ammonia a year. 

EDF Renewables and Zero Waste team-up in Egypt:

On April 22, 2022, arabnews.com reported that EDF Renewables and Zero Waste had signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a carbon-free fuel production project working with the Ministry of Electricity, the General Authority for Suez Canal Economic Zone and The Sovereign Fund of Egypt. The project is to be located within Suez Canal Economic Zone. 

Hassan Allam Utilities and Masdar agree to develop Green Hydrogen production facility:

On April 25, 2022, energy-utilities.com reported that Hassan Allam Utilities and Masdar had signed two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) to produce Green Ammonia for export from the Ain Sokhna Industrial Zone, Egypt. The MOUs were signed with the Suez Canal Economic Zone, The Sovereign Fund of Egypt, the Egyptian Electricity Transmission Company, and the New and Renewable Energy Authority. 

India and Indonesia:

Indonesia to supply Britishvolt giga-factory:

On March 29, 2022, it was announced by Britishvolt (see Edition 33 of Low Carbon Pulse) that it had signed a memorandum of understanding with VKTR to partner to develop a lower to low carbon supply chain for nickel sulphate from Indonesia to supply Britishvolt's Blyth giga-factory (in the north east of England) to manufacture electric vehicle batteries. 

JSW Energy to develop hydro-electric pumped storage plant:

On April 4, 2022, energy-storage reported that JSW Energy had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the Government of Chhattisgarh to develop a 1 GW hydro-electric pumped storage plant – the Hasdev Bango Pumped Storage Project (PSP). The integration of the PSP, with photovoltaic solar and wind renewable energy capacity, will allow JSW Energy to "provide firm dispatchable renewable power" 24/7. 

Indonesia defers the introduction of carbon tax:

On April 4, 2022, it was reported widely that the Government of Indonesia was to defer the introduction of its carbon tax from April 2022 until July 2022. Head of Fiscal Policy Agency, Ministry of Finance, Mr Febrio Kacaribu said: 

"The [pressure on prices arising from the conflict in Ukraine] puts pressure on inflation in many countries in the world, including Indonesia. With these developments, the government is ensuring the availability and stabilization of energy and food prices in the country, including providing various forms of social protection to protect the poor and vulnerable from the impact of price increases".

NTPC active in Green Hydrogen production and procurement: 

• NTPC and Gujarat Gas Ltd to blend On April 5, 2022, it was reported widely that NTPC and Gujarat Gas Limited had agreed to blend Green Hydrogen with natural gas. 
• NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NREL) to electrolyse: On April 26, 2022, it was reported widely that NREL is seeking to work with electrolyser technology corporations and developers to procure up to 1 GW of electrolyser capacity on a turnkey basis. NREL has indicated that it intends for tender for 400 MW of PEM electrolysers and 600 MW of electrolysers using other electrolyser technologies. 

Mitsui & Co. invests big, and early:

On April 7, 2022, it was reported widely that Mitsui & Co. had invested in ReNew. ReNew has a power purchase agreement with Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI, a state-owned corporation) to supply 400 MW of renewable electrical energy from photovoltaic solar and wind installations across Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan, and from an accompanying BESS (the RTC Project). The RTC Project is reported to have a capital cost of USD 1.2 billion, and will provide renewable electrical energy capacity 24/7. 

PT Pertamina and Indonesian investments plans:

On March 25, 2022, energyvoice.com reported that PT Pertamina plans to invest up to USD 11 billion on renewable energy projects over the period 2022 to 2026 so as to continue making progress in energy transition, in particular to allow it to install 10 GW of clean energy generation capacity by 2026 (6 GW from gas-to-power, 3 GW from renewable energy sources, and 1 GW from other initiatives). 

On April 4, 2022, energy voice.com reported that, more broadly, Indonesia would require USD 25.2 billion to develop Green Hydrogen from 2031 to 2060. This is in addition to the USD 11 billion identified as being required to be invested by PT Pertamina from 2022 to 2026. 

PT Pertamina and Mitsui & Co:

On April 8, 2022, it was reported widely that PT Pertamina and Mitsui & Co  were to undertake jointly a study in respect of CCUS, critically, the pathways to the commercialisation of CCUS projects in Indonesia. 

Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI) continuing to procure:

On April 14, 2022, energy-storage reported that SECI had issued a Request for Selection document to procure 500MW / 1,000 MWh of BESS. It is reported that this is expected to be the first stage of a procurement program that will procure up to 4,000 MWh of BESS. 

CATL to invest USD 6 billion in battery chain:

On April 15, 2022, electrek reported that CATL, through a subsidiary, is to take a majority stake in five of six battery projects to be developed with PT Aneka Tambang and PT Industri Baterai Indonesia.

8% of Singapore load:

On April 19, 2022, it was reported widely that Quantum Power and Ib Vogt, through a joint venture, Anatara, have plans to develop renewable energy facilities within the Riau Islands Province, Indonesia, to supply renewable electrical energy to the Republic of Singapore, using a subsea cable, requiring USD 5 billion to develop and to deploy 3.5 GW of photovoltaic capacity and 12 GWh of BESS.

PLN Sub and IHI co-venture on co-firing:

On April 25, 2022, it was reported widely that Pembangkitan Jawa-Bali (PJB, a subsidiary of PLN) and IHI Corporation are to work together to develop ammonia-co-firing technology to allow co-firing of natural gas and ammonia at the PJB gas-fired power plants at Gresik, east Java, Indonesia. 

POME feedstock for clean gas:

On April 27, 2022, it was reported widely that PT Pertamina, Inpex Corporation, JGC Holdings Corporation and Osaka Gas Co., Ltd had signed a study agreement under which they agreed to work together to assess the commercial and technical feasibility of producing clean natural gas from palm oil mill effluent (POME). Biogas and biomethane and bio-LNG can be derived or produced from POME. 

Japan and Republic of Korea (ROK):

Hyundai Mobis invests USD 1.1 billion in FCE plants:

On April 1, 2022, it was reported widely that Hyundai Mobis is to develop two new fuel cell manufacturing plants, one close to Seoul, and the other in Ulsan. The two new plants will commence manufacture in Q2 of 2023 and will have capacity to manufacture up to 100,000 fuel cells a year. The fuel cells manufactured are intended for use in vehicles used in the construction and logistics mobility sectors. 

SK to invest USD 2.5 billion in PRC plants:

During the first week of April, 2022 it was reported widely that SK is to develop a new battery factory in the PRC to manufacture batteries for EVs. 

KOGAS MOU with Sempra Infrastructure:

On April 4, 2022, it was reported widely that KOGAS and Sempra Infrastructure had signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to consider how they may work together to transition to lower-carbon and to zero-carbon fuels. 

Europe and UK:

No fool's day:

On April 1, 2022, seven projects were granted funding support by the Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA), with aggregate funding support of €1.1 billion.

While some projects are detailed elsewhere in this Edition 39 of Low Carbon Pulse they are listed here for convenience: 

The BECSS project:

Located in Stockholm, Sweden, this project is the first full-scale Bio-Energy Carbon Capture and Storage (BECCS) project, capturing CO₂ and heat from an existing biomass project.

The Ecoplanta project:

Located in El Morell, Spain, this first-of-a-kind processing and production plant processes waste (that would otherwise be landfilled), and produces methanol from that waste.

The Hybrit project:

Located in Gällivare and Oxelösund, Sweden, this Hydrogen Breakthrough Ironmaking Technology Demonstration (Hybrit) project will produce fossil-fuel free iron and steel.

The Kairos@C project:

Located in the Port of Antwerp, this project is the first and largest cross-border carbon capture and storage value chain to capture, liquefy, ship, and store permanently CO₂.

The K6 project:

Located in Lumbres, France, this first-of-a-kind project uses an industrial scale-combination of airtight kiln and cryogenic carbon capture technology, with captured CO₂ to be stored in the North Sea.

The SHARC project:

Located at the Porvoo refinery, Finland, the Sustainable Hydrogen and Recovery of Carbon (SHARC) project will reduce GHG emissions on transition from use of fossil fuels to renewable hydrogen production.

The Tango project:

Located in Catania, Italy, this project involves the development of industrial-scale production capacity to manufacture high-performance photovoltaic solar modules.

EC considering higher renewable energy target:

On April 20, 2022, Reuters reported that the Deputy Director-General of the Energy Department of the EC had stated: "We are working on it full speed to take, first of the proposal of going from 40% to 45%, but also in the context of higher energy prices". 

While the EC may be considering the proposal at full speed, the EU Member States and the European Parliament will have to be aligned if the proposal is to become the new policy setting. 

Portugal increases rate of speed of light:

On April 4, 2022, pv-tech.org reported that the Government of Portugal is to increase the rate of development and deployment of renewable electrical energy installation so that by 2026, 80% of electrical energy dispatched to match load will be from a renewable energy source. 

European Hydrogen Backbone response to REPowerEU: 

• On April 5, 2022, the European Hydrogen Backbone (EHB) published a paper (entitled European Hydrogen Backbone – April 2022) detailing the growth in the network (comprising the backbone necessary to facilitate the use of hydrogen) to meet the REPowerEU policy settings.
• On April 25, 2022, it was reported widely that the Nordic Hydrogen Route (part of the EHB) is to be developed in the Bothnian Bay region by Gasgrid Finland and Nordion Energi. There has been a marked level of news coverage since the announcement of the Bothnian Bay region project.
• Towards the end of April the EHB website launched a map function to detail the pipelines comprising, and to comprise, the EHB.

Editions 11, 13, 14 and 20 of Low Carbon Pulse provide details about the EHB.

Common themes – the need for common / share infrastructure and a common market: 

• On April 5, 2022, the hydrogen economist provided an analysis of the benefits of the development of common / shared infrastructure by Germany and the Netherlands, in particular the benefits of the development of a hydrogen backbone, with the central premise being common / shared infrastructure will increase demand, possibly even doubling the projected demand (up to 401 TWh a year by 2050). 
• EWI Study supports needs identified: On April 14, 2022, EWI (Institute of Energy Economics at the University of Cologne) published a study, Development of Hydrogen Market in Eastern Germany – An Infrastructure analysis based on regional potentials and demand. The study was commissioned by GASCADE Gastransport GmbH.

TES Fast-tracks:

On April 14, 2022, Forbes (under German Clean Energy Hub Pivotal to Reducing Reliance on Russian Gas) published an article reporting on an interview with the CEO of Tree Energy Solutions (TES), Mr Otto Waterlander, about green gas. TES (a green hydrogen corporation, reported on in Editions 36 of Low Carbon Pulse) is reported to be "fast-tracking" the development of a green hydrogen hub at Wilhelmshaven in Northern Germany (the TES-Wilhelmshaven project). 

On April 25, 2022, TES announced that it was running an open-season process to fast-track the import of LNG to its TES-Wilhelmshaven project. It is understood that under the first phase of open-season process non-binding expressions of interest are sought. The second phase will involve binding commitments, with third phase involving conclusion of the binding commitments. Edition 37 of Low Carbon Pulse provides background about TES. 

UK Export Finance (UK EF) provides clean guarantee:

On April 6, 2022, gtreview.com reported that the UK EF had agreed to guarantee a GBP 400 million sustainability-linked facility provided to Johnson Matthey by Bank of America, HSBC and SMBC. Johnson Matthey is a leading developer of sustainable technologies, including for Green Hydrogen production and metals recovery and recycling. 

UK doubles hydrogen target and 50 by 30:

On April 6, 2022, among other things, UK Prime Minister, Mr Boris Johnson announced that the UK would double its target for hydrogen production capacity from 5 GW by 2030, to 10 GW by 2030. Key points in the new British Energy Security Strategy also include the development and deployment of eight new nuclear reactors and the promotion of policy settings to accelerate the installation of roof-top photovoltaic solar. The full form of the strategy is attached: Policy Paper – British energy security strategy. 

Studied release:

On April 8, 2022, the UK Government Department of Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) released Atmospheric Implications of Increased Hydrogen Use. The headline from the study is the importance of preventing the leakage of hydrogen into the atmosphere so as to prevent the compounding of hydrogen with other compounds and elements creating GHGs.

Hydrogen Investor Roadmap:

On April 8, 2022, the BEIS published Hydrogen investor roadmap: leading the way to net zero (HIR). The purpose of the HIR is to summarise government policies supporting the development of the low-carbon hydrogen economy in the UK. 

CCS Investor Roadmap:

On April 8, 2022, the BEIS published CCUS Investor Roadmap – Capturing Carbon and a Global Opportunity (CIR). In context, the CIR needs to be read with the UK Government target of capturing 20 to 30 million metric tonnes of CO₂ a year.

UK Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard:

On April 8, 2022, the BEIS published UK Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard: emissions reporting and sustainability criteria. The publication marks considerable and marked progress since August 17, 2021, when the BEIS published Designing a UK low carbon hydrogen standard. 

UK progressing to CfDs for hydrogen production:

On April 11, 2022, rechargenews.com (under UK finalise world's first national subsidy for clean hydrogen production by the year) reported that the BEIS had announced the use of contracts for difference (CfD) for hydrogen. 

Germany and UK interconnect:

On April 12, 2022, CNBC reported (under Giant undersea cables set to give the UK and Germany their first direct energy link) on the NeuConnect project which is to allow each way electrical energy supply of 1.4 GW between Germany and the UK. The interconnector, 725 kilometres in length, has been dubbed the "invisible energy highway".

Americas:

Land release:

On April 21, 2022, rechargenews.com reported that the US Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plans to green-light the development of 39 utility-scale photovoltaic solar projects, together to have more than 29 GW of installed capacity, on Federal lands in six western states. 

Earth Day Executive Order:

On April 22, 2022, US President, Mr Joe Biden, signed an Executive Order to:

(a) safeguard mature and old-growth forests on Federal lands; (b) strengthen reforestation initiatives across the US; (c) combat global deforestation, consistent with commitments made at COP-26; and (d) enlist nature to address efforts to address climate change. 

Pennsylvania powers ahead:

On April 22, 2022, the US State of Pennsylvania (responsible for 4% of US GHG emissions) published regulations to require power station owners to pay for each ton of carbon that they emit. 

As reported, both opponents and supporters of the regulations expect delay in the application of the regulations. The regulations are reported to be part of the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, including 11 north eastern US States.

France and Germany:

France committed to 40 by 50:

On March 31, 2022, and in early April, it was reported widely that the French Government had committed to the development of 40 GW off-shore wind field capacity by 2050 (40 by 50). As contemplated, the commitment envisages that the capacity will be installed across 50 off-shore find fields. To reach 40 by 50, France will have to auction a minimum of 2 GW of off-shore wind field capacity a year from 2025. In today's Euros, the development of 40 by 50 will cost in the region €40 billion. 

On March 31, 2022, it was reported that the Hy3 Project study had been published jointly by Forschungzentrum Julich, Dena, and TNO. As might be expected, the key finding of the Hy3 Project study is that cooperation between Germany and the Netherlands, in developing a common hydrogen market and common infrastructure, will boost opportunities to realise a decarbonised regional economy. 

Germany committed to up to 215 by 30: 

• On April 6, 2022, it was reported widely that Germany intended to introduce and EEG Easter Package to accelerate the development and deployment of photovoltaic solar capacity and wind, critically to accelerate development and deployment across open-spaces and roof-tops, so as deploy 22 GW by 2023, and to deploy 215 GW of photovoltaic solar capacity by 2030 (215 by 30).
• On April 7, 2022, it was reported widely that Germany intended to change (as part of the EEG Easter Package) the targets for the installation of off-shore wind field capacity, stretching those targets to 30 GW by 2030, 40 GW by 2040, and at least 70 GW by 2045.

Australia:

Federal Australian Government to fund Marinus Link:

On April 3, 2022, the Department of Industry, Science and Resources announced the funding support will be provided for the development of a 250 kilometre sub-sea interconnector between the States of Tasmania and Victoria, described as "unlocking" access to renewable electrical energy generation capacity in Tasmania, predominantly existing hydro-electric and on-shore wind. 

Federal Government of Australia announces further funding support:

On April 19, 2022, the Federal Government announced support for the critical minerals industry (CMI), the clean hydrogen industry (CHI) and CCS:

CMI:

Critical Minerals Accelerator Initiative was announced by the Federal Minister for Resources and Water, Mr Keith Pitt. This announcement builds on the loan to Iluka Resources to develop Rare Earths and Elements refinery (see Iluka to develop REE refinery in Western Australia below);

CHI:

The Federal Minister for Industry, Energy and Emissions Reduction, Mr Angus Taylor, announced the provision of further funding support to the clean hydrogen industry, including:

• the H2Kwinana Clean Hydrogen Industrial Hub – with up to AUD 70 million; [arrows]

• the Pilbara Hydrogen Hub – with up to AUD 70 million;

CCS:

The Federal Government announced funding support in respect of CCS projects:

• the Woodside Energy multi-user CCS hub on the Burrup Peninsula, Western Australia - with up to AUD 40 million; 
• the Mitsui E&P Mid-West CCS hub – with up to AUD 20 million; and
• the Buru Energy for potential on-shore CCS – with up to AUD 7 million.

The Federal Government is to be commended for striking a balance between providing a helping hand, and a hand-out, to projects that are being development by the private-sector.

Bioenergy and heat-recovery:

Veolia and Waga Energy deploy France's largest biomethane production facility:

On April 1, 2022, the author came across reports in French outlining the deployment of a 120 GW h per year biomethane production facility deriving biogas from landfill (biogas comprising CH₄ and CO₂, and trace compounds), and processing that biogas to produce biomethane. This will be largest biomethane production facility in France, at least for the time being.

Veolia to develop world's largest biorefinery in Finland:

On April 6, 2022, biofuels-news.com reported (under Veolia launches biorefinery project using alternative feedstock) that Veolia is to develop a bio-refinery producing CO₂-neutral methanol. The bio-methanol will be produced from organic paper and wood waste sourced from the Metsä Fibre's Äänekoski pulp mill in Finland. It is understood that the bio-methanol plant will produce up to 12,000 metric tonnes of bio-methanol a year. It is understood that production will commence in 2024. 

NREL on top of biogas potential:

On April, 8, 2022, NREL (the National Renewable Energy Laboratory of the US Department of Energy) published Biogas Potential in the United States (Fact Sheet), Energy Analysis. The headline is the CH₄ that could be derived and produced from waste that would otherwise be landfilled, animal manure, wastewater, and organic waste streams from commercial, industrial and commercial sources is estimated to be sufficient to provide 9% of the natural gas demand of the US. The by-product of the production of biogas is digestate (using anaerobic technology), which is can be used, in processed form, as a fertiliser.

BESS and HESS (and energy storage):

AboitizPower proceeds with BESS:

On April 6, 2022, energy-storage reported that SNAP (SN Aboitiz Power Group) had made a final investment decision to proceed with the procurement of a 20 MW / 20 MWh BESS, and for this purpose had contracted with Hitachi Energy to supply and to install the BESS. The BESS is to be installed at the 360 MW Magat hydro-electric power station in Ramon, Isabela, in the north Philippines.

Uniper back-to-the-future:

On April 11, 2022, Uniper announced that it was to test the former Krummhörn natural gas storage facility for suitability for use at a HESS. A demonstration HESS is to be developed, with storage capacity of up to 250,000 m³.

Market control of BESS:

On April 12, 2022, it was reported widely that EnergyAustralia signed a deal with Edify to take market control of Edify's Darlington Point (25 MW / 50 MWh) and Riverina 2 (65 MW / 130 MWh) BESSs in New South Wales, Australia. 

EnergyAustralia operates Edify's Gannawarra (25 MW / 50 MWh) BESS in Victoria, Australia, and Ausnet's Ballarat (30 MW / 30 MWh) BESS, also in Victoria. EnergyAustralia is developing its own BESS, the Wooreen (350 MW / 1400 MWh) BESS, in the Latrobe Valley, Victoria.

Virtual BESS:

On April 14, 2022, AGL and Neoen announced that they had signed a virtual BESS capacity contract (BESS CC). Under the BESS CC, Neoen provides AGL with 70 MW / 140 MWh of virtual BESS capacity in New South Wales, Australia. The BESS CC allows AGL to charge and to dispatch the BESS, providing AGL with flexibility in respect its customer load.

Carbon Accounting, Carbon Capture and Carbon Capture and Use and CDR:

Stockholm Exergi's BEECS project receives €180 million of EU support funding:

On April 1, 2022, it was announced by Stockholm Exergi that the CINEA had committed to provide funding support, in the form of a grant, to allow the installation of BECCs technology for Stockholm Exergi's project will capture 800,000 metric tonnes of biogenic carbon dioxide a year, capturing nearly 90% of the biogenic carbon dioxide arising. 

Hanson CCS project and HeidelbergCement leadership: 

• On April 6, 2022, constructionnews.co.uk reported that Hanson (part of the HeidelbergCement Group) is to spend GBP 400 to install carbon capture technology at its cement manufacturing plant at Padewood, near Mold, North Wales (Padeswood Project). 
• On April 11, 2022, HeidelbergCement Group announced that the Concrete Sustainability Council had certified 16 of its cement manufacturing plants using the new CO₂ module.
• On April 11, 2022, the HeidelbergCement Group cement manufacturing plant at which CO₂ is to be captured and then transported for storage in the Northern Lights Project was featured in an article in chemindigest.com (under Capturing Carbon Dioxide through Cement). 

ExxonMobil pre-FEED:

During the week beginning April 11, 2022, it was reported widely that ExxonMobil had commenced pre-FEED work to assess the potential for the use of the Gippsland Basin (located in the south east of Australia) for the storage of carbon. The pre-FEED work is understood to be focussing on the use of existing infrastructure to store CO₂ in the depleted Bream field off the coast of Gippsland, Victoria. 

Technip Energies selected for Kasawari CCS project:

On April 19, 2022, Technip Energies announced that it and NPCC (National Petroleum Construction Corporation), had been selected by Petronas Carigali Sdn. Bhd (a subsidiary of PETRONAS) to undertake FEED for one of the world's largest off-shore CCS projects.

Carbon Credits and Hydrogen Markets and Trading:

Physical hydrogen trading:

On April 12, 2022, hydrogen-central.com reported that during a visit to the North Sea Port in Terneuzen the Dutch Minister of Climate and Energy Mr Rob Jetten, had received the first certificated for Green Hydrogen from HyXChange. 

The hydrogen exchange initiative has been developed by Gasunie, Port of Rotterdam Authority, Port of Amsterdam, Gronigen Seaports, and North Sea Port). The HyXChange is a trading platform that will allow the physical trading of hydrogen, with each certificate required to trade a Guarantee of Origin. 

E-fuels & feedstocks / Future Fuels & Feedstocks / Now Fuels & Feedstocks:

Neste nest egg and perfect plastic:

• On April 4, 2022, Neste announced that it had signed a funding support agreement with the CINEA under which CINEA commits to provide €88 million in grant funding to allow Neste to continue the development and deployment of its SHARC project at its Porvoo refinery in Finland.
• On April 1, 2022, it was reported widely that Neste intends to conduct a feasibility study to consider whether it was possible to process liquified feedstock derived from plastic waste at the Porvoo refinery.

Air Liquide safe bet in Las Vegas:

On April 4, 2022, Air Liquide announced that it is to develop a landfill gas>to biogas>to clean-gas project near Las Vegas, Nevada (the Nevada Hydrogen Factory). The Nevada Hydrogen Factory will produce 30 metric tonnes of liquid hydrogen (LH2) a day. In the first instance, it is understand that the LH2 will be transported to California for sale into the mobility market.

Bakken Energy and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries continue to progress: 

• On April 5, 2022, asia.nikkei.com reported (under Mitsubishi Heavy taps US partner for $2 bn hydrogen project) that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries was continuing to work with Bakken Energy develop the largest clean hydrogen project in North America to date, the 300,000 metric tonnes a year North Dakota Clean Hydrogen Hub Project. The feedstock for the production of clean hydrogen is natural gas. 
• On April 10, 2022, asia.nikkei.com updated early reporting (under Mitsubishi Heavy's U.S. hydrogen hub to receive $90 million in aid: governor) that the US State of North Dakota was to provide USD 90 million of funding support, including subsidies and low-interest financing for the development of the North Dakota Clean Hydrogen Hub Project. See Editions 19 and 25 of Low Carbon Pulse for background.

Mitsubishi and Shell aligned:

On April 7, 2022, h2-view.com reported that Mitsubishi Corporation and Shell plc had agreed to work together to develop and to deploy Green Hydrogen production capacity using renewable electrical energy sourced from 4 GW of off-shore wind fields off the Netherlands. As currently contemplated, together Mitsubishi and Shell plan to produce 400,000 metric tonnes a year of Green Hydrogen by 2030.

Lhyfe aligned wpd and Mitsui:

• On April 11, 2022, h2.view.com reported that Lhyfe and wpd have agreed to work together to develop and to deploy a large-scale Green Hydrogen production facility, of up to 600 MW, using renewable electrical energy sourced from a planned 1 GW off-shore wind field. 
• On April 13, 2022, Mitsui & Co., Ltd announced that it had invested in Lhyfe, on the basis that it is aligned the sustainability goals of Mitsui, critically, to allow Mitsui to import Green Hydrogen into European markets.

ACE Terminal progressing:

On April 11, 2022, Vopak provided an update in respect of the ACE Terminal. The ACE Terminal, being developed by Gasunie, HES International B.V. and Vopak. The Green Ammonia import terminal is being developed in the Port of Rotterdam. The ACE Terminal is planned to be operational from 2026.

Gladstone to get another hydrogen production facility:

On April 12, 2022, it was reported widely that The Hydrogen Utility (H2U) Group and Orica are to assess the first stage of the development of a 3 GW Green Hydrogen Hub, capable for producing up to 5,000 metric tonnes of Green Hydrogen a day. 

Desert Bloom progresses:

On April 11, 2022, it was reported widely that Osaka Gas had agreed to develop Desert Bloom jointly with Aqua Aerem (air-to-water technology developer). The involvement of Osaka Gas is telling, providing support for both the project and the technology. See Edition 32 of Low Carbon Pulse for background.

Shell and Uniper progress:

On April 12, 2022, Shell announced (under Shell and Uniper to work together on Blue Hydrogen production facility in the UK) the signature of a cooperation agreement with Uniper to progress plans for low-carbon hydrogen production at Uniper's Killingholme Site in North Lincolnshire, England.

As contemplated, the low-carbon hydrogen produced will be used by heavy industry, land transport mobility, and heating and power across the Humber region (and beyond). As noted in Edition 37 of Low Carbon Pulse, the project satisfied the eligibility criteria for the Phase-2 carbon capture, usage and storage Cluster Sequencing Programme. 

Seoul Sludge to Hydrogen:

On April 12, 2022, it was reported that Seoul Water Recycling Corporation is working with Plagen (a pyrolysis and renewable fuel production corporation) to develop jointly technology to source biogas from the sludge arising from waste water treatment to produce hydrogen from the biogas. 

Total Eren chilled:

On April 14, 2022, it was reported that Total Eren is progressing with the development of its 8 GW Green Hydrogen production facility in the Magallanes region, Southern Chile with the reported appointment of Wood (leading global consulting and engineering corporation) to undertake conceptual design and engineering work. See Edition 32 of Low Carbon Pulse for background. 

Project Global Hydrogen Supply by 2030:

On April 13, 2022, EDF Group announced (under The EDF Group launches a new industrial plan to produce 100% low-carbon hydrogen) that it aims to develop "3 GW of electrolytic hydrogen projects worldwide by 2030. These projects will involve between €2 and €3 billion of investment, will be developed and co-financed through industrial partnerships and by drawing on national and European support mechanisms". The hydrogen produced will be both Green and Pink. 

Sun Cable continues to progress:

On April 20, 2022, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on-line news feed, abc.net.au reported that the environmental impact assessment (EIS) for Sun Cable had been lodged. 

As regular readers of Low Carbon Pulse will know, the Sun Cable (and the Australia-Asia PowerLink) projects have been covered in Low Carbon Pulse from the earliest editions (see Editions 2, 3, 13, 26, 28, 32). 

CIP and Madoqua Renewables progress in Portugal:

On April 20, 2022, renews.biz reported that Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners' Energy Transition Fund is working with Madoqua Renewables and Power2X to develop a €1 billion 500 MW Green Hydrogen and Green Ammonia production facility to be located in Sines, Portugal (the MadoquaPower2X project). The MadoquaPower2X project will produce 50,000 metric tonnes of Green Hydrogen and 500,000 metric tonnes of Green Ammonia a year.

Advanced Methanol Rotterdam (AMR):

On April 24, 2022, as reported the AMR facility will produce up to 90,000 metric tonnes of renewable methanol a year from feedstock comprising 180,000 metric tonnes of non-recyclable waste, currently being treated thermally. The AMR facility will capture all CO₂ arising, and it will be used in local greenhouses, and the bottom ash will be used for cement production, with other residual streams (including ammonia and salts) to be sold.

Aker Horizons and Nordkraft shape the north:

On April 25, 2022, it was reported widely that Aker Horizons and Nordkraft plan to develop, in joint venture, a large-scale hydrogen production facility in Narvik, Norway. It is understood that common use infrastructure will be developed to provide sites for energy intensive industries.

Permacand and RES to develop Green Hydrogen production facility:

On April 25, 2022, it was reported widely that Permacand and RES had signed a letter of intent (LOI) to develop a Green Hydrogen production facility in Alby, Ånge Municipality, Sweden. 

US DOE lends to the Advanced Clean Energy Storage Hub Project:

On April 26, 2022, it was reported that the US DOE Loan Program Office had committed, conditionally, to provide up to USD 504.4 million of debt funding in respect of the Advanced Clean Energy Storage Hub Project. The Advanced Clean Energy Storage Hub Project is to be developed by Magnum Development LLC and Mitsubishi Power Americas Inc, and it expected to the commence operations in 2025. On April 27, 2022, it was reported that Black & Veatch had been selected as an EPC provider for the Project.

Cities, Clusters, and Hubs and Corridors and Valleys, and Giga-Factories:

Enel receives funding support for expansion of giga-factory:

On April 1, 2022, the Enel Green Power (subsidiary of Enel, leading international renewables and utility corporation) announced that it had signed a grant agreement with the CINEA under which it will receive €118 million to be contributed to the cost of the expansion of its 200 MW bifacial photovoltaic module factory in Catania, southern Italy, into a 3 GW Giga-factory. The total cost of expansion is understood to be €600 million. 

John Cockerill and Greenko Group roost:

On April 11, 2022, rechargenews.com reported the John Cockerill Group is to develop a 2 GW electrolyser giga-factory in India in conjunction with a subsidiary of Greenko Group. The John Cockerill Group manufactures alkaline electrolysers. 

* Cummins has announced two Giga-Factories, one with Iberdrola, and one with Sinopec,
# Plug Power has announced two Giga-Factories, one in the US, one in ROK.
$ Ohmium International announced on April 18, 2022 that it is to increase electrolyser manufacturing capacity to 2 GW by the end of 2022 at its giga-factory in Bangalore, India.
+ NEL ASA announced on April 20, 2022, that its fully automated electrolyser manufacturing facility in Herøya, Norway, was on-line.

Republic of Ireland's first Hydrogen Valley:

On April 14, 2022, renews.biz reported that the Port of Galway and SSE Renewables had unveiled plans for Ireland's first Hydrogen Valley (the Galway Hydrogen Hub). 

100 cities to participate in EU Missions:

On April 28, 2022, the EC announced the 100 EU cities that will participate in the EU Mission, the so called Cities Mission. 

Green Metals / Minerals, Mining and Difficult to Decarbonise Industries:

Highlight for HYBRIT:

On April 1, 2022, LKAB, SSAB and Vattenfall announced the signature of the funding support agreement with the CINEA. The funding support is to allow the scaling up and commercialisation of the value chain for the use of hydrogen to produce green iron and steel. Editions 13, 16, 20, 25, 26 and 27 of Low Carbon Pulse provide background.

POSCO and Hancock testing feasibility of HBI plant:

On April 1, 2022, the author picked up on reporting in the ROK press that POSCO had announced the execution of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between POSCO and Hancock to Produce Low Carbon Steel Raw Materials, with the MOU focusing on testing the feasibility of a hot briquette iron (HBI) production facility, and, depending on the outcome of the testing of feasibility, the development of an iron ore mine to provide dedicated iron ore to produce HBI. To some with long memories, and longer in the tooth, HBI has long been a good idea the time for which may be nigh.

Iluka to develop REE refinery in Western Australia:

On April 3, 2022, Iluka Resources announced that the Australian Federal Government had approved an AUD 1.25 billion loan to allow Iluka Resources to develop a rare earths and elements refinery.

Wind round-up, on-shore and off-shore:

Lithuania moves to off-shore:

On April 1, 2022, it was reported widely that on March 31, 2021, the Lithuanian Parliament (Seimas) had approved laws to allow the development of the off-shore wind field capacity in the Lithuanian sector of the Baltic Sea. As reported, the first off-shore wind field progress to development during Q3 of 2023, and is to have 700 MW of installed capacity, with first electrical energy in 2028. 

Australia's first off-shore wind project starts heavy lifting:

On April 1, 2022, it was reported widely that the developers of the 2.2 GW Star of the South Project, off the coast of Victoria, Australia, were progressing to undertake detailed ground investigations along the route of the on-shore transmission route. Editions 13, 14, 16 and 31 provide earlier reports on the Star of the South. 

GWEC – Global Wind Report:

On April 4, 2022, the Global Wind Energy Council (GWC) released the Global Wind Report 2022, which is worth a read to firm up thinking on current trends and projected installations.

Eni and CIP JV proceeds to floating off-shore:

On April 6, 2022, it was reported widely that Plentitude (a joint venture between Eni SpA, CDP Equity and a fund managed by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners) was to proceed to develop two floating off-shore wind fields off the coast Marsala, Italy, in combination the two off-shore wind fields will comprise 750 MW of installed capacity. 

Floating off-shore hydrogen production facility:

On April 7, 2022, pv.magazine.com reported (under Renewable offshore floating hydrogen production) that Scottish Development International and J-DeEP plan to develop a floating off-shore Green Hydrogen production facility off the coast of Scotland. 

Equinor unveils USD 23 billion plans:

On April 22, 2022, maritime-executive.com reported that Equinor intends to invest USD 23 billion in off-shore wind projects in the near term (over the next five years), with the intention of having 16 GW of installed off-shore wind field capacity by 2030. 

Iberdrola approval for next phase of USD 4 billion project:

On April 25, 2022, rechargenews.com reported that Iberdrola had received approval form the Federal German Government authorities to develop the second of three off-shore wind field projects in the German sector of the Baltic Sea: the development of the 476 MW Bald Eagle project. 

Dutch continuing to double-up: 

On April 13, 2022, it was reported widely that the ruling political parties in the Netherlands (WD and D66) want the Netherlands to more than double its goal for the production of Green Hydrogen. In the 2019 National Climate Agreement of the Netherlands, the commitment was to establish 4 GW of Green Hydrogen production capacity by 2030, the increase to 8 GW would go hand in hand with the planned increase scaling up of off-shore wind field capacity. 

Enefit Green progress in Estonia:

On April 29, 2022, offshorewind.biz reported on the progress being made towards the development of the 1.1 GW Hiiu (or Loode-Eesti) off-shore wind field development to be located 12 kms north of the second largest island in the Estonia sector of the Baltic Sea (Hiiumaa). 

Solar and Sustainability (including NZE Waste):

Second life and recycling:

On April 7, 2022, CIC energiGUNE published a map-graphic (entitled Second Life and Recycling – Companies in Europe) providing a snap shot of the battery recycling plants across Europe and the UK. As ever, thanks to the good folk at CIC energiGUNE. 

ENEOS and TotalEnergies aligned:

On April 13, 2022, it was reported widely that ENEOS and TotalEnergies had established a 50:50 joint venture to develop up to 2 GW of decentralised photovoltaic solar capacity over the next five years.

Chile tenders nearly 2,800 hectares:

On April 14, 2022, pv-magazine.com reported that Chile's Ministry of National Property announced a tender for nearly 2,800 hectares of land located in the Commune of Santa Elena, 27.5 km northwest of Quillagua, in the Antofagasta region of Chile. Those interested in tendering for the land must do so by May 25, 2022. The land must be used to develop large-scale renewable energy generation capacity.

Gemini Project closes:

On April 26, 2022, rechargenews.com reported on financial close of the US's largest-ever photovoltaic solar-plus BESS project (the Gemini Project): the Gemini Project comprises 690 MW of photovoltaic solar and 380 MW / 1,417 MWh of BESS. Primergy Solar and Quinbrook Infrastructure Partners are reported to have closed the USD 1.9 billion construction debt (circa USD 1.3 billion in debt) and tax equity financing for the Gemini Project to be located in the Mojave Desert, Nevada. 

JERA to deploy 1 GW of photovoltaic solar:

On April 27, 2022, rechargenews.com reported that it intends to develop and to deploy up to 1 GW of photovoltaic solar by 2025 to provide electrical energy to JERA's domestic market.

Land Mobility / Transport:

Buses and coaches: 

Solaris Bus & Coach continues its roll:

During April 2022, Solaris Bus and Coach continued to agree sales of its Solaris Urbino electric bus with the following sales: 12 electric buses to JGSP Novi Sud (Serbian bus operator), and accompanying supply of electric charging infrastructure; 17 electric buses to MZK Grudziądz (Polish bus operator in the City of Grudziądz); 10 hydrogen buses (Urbino) are to mobilised for use by two operators (five to each), Busreisen Ettenhuber GmbH and Martin Geldhauser GmbH & Co. KG.

NY School Buses electric by 2035:

On April 8, 2022, it was reported widely that Governor Ms Kathy Hochul is to propose legislation to require 100% of all school buses to be electric by 2035 in the State of New York.

Spain's hydrogen fuel celled buses:

On April 8, 2022, it was reported widely that Transports Metropolitans de Barcelona (TMB) begun operating a CaetaniBus powered and propelled by fuel cell technology. In addition, it is understood that another seven CaetaniBuses will enter into service by the end of 2022.

German operator receives grant funding:

On April 11, 2022, fuelcellbuses.eu reported (under RVK received grant of 108 hydrogen-powered fuel cell hybrid buses) that a German public transport operator, Regionalverkehr Köln GmbH (RVK), is to receive funding support from the German Federal Government Ministry of Digital Affairs and Transport. The funding support will allow the mobilisation of 108 hydrogen-powered and propelled buses, which will be added to the RVK fleet by 2024. 

BEV Bus Depot:

On April 13, 2022, the Government of Queensland, Australia, announced (under A one-way ticket to low-emissions public transport) that Australia's first 100% electric bus depot was now open, and would be providing battery charging for 30 electric buses. 

Cars (including taxis and air-taxis):

Airborne taxis and airports:

Hyundai plans hydrogen powered and propelled air taxis:

On April 1, 2021, it was reported widely that Hyundai is progressing with plans to develop and to deploy air-taxi by 2030 – using advanced air mobility technology, and having established an Advanced Air Mobility Unit to develop the eSTOL aircraft. 

AFC Energy fuels cells showcased:

On April 29, 2021, hydrogen-central.com reported (under AFC Energy Hydrogen Fuel Cell to be Showcased at Flying Taxi Airport) that "one of the hydrogen batteries" of AFC Energy PLC (AFC Energy) "will be used to charge Air One's fleet of electric vehicles" based at "the flying taxi airport that opened in Coventry" during April 2022.

Paris electrolysis: 

• Edition 4 of Low Carbon Pulse reported on plans to develop 10 hydrogen storage facilities at locations around Paris. On April 4, 2022, Cummins Inc. announced that its affiliate, Hydrogenics Europe N.V., had signed a contract to supply a 2.5 MW electrolyser to Hysetco (a mobility corporation owned by Air Liquide, Korous, TotalEnergies and Toyota) to allow production of hydrogen in Paris, France. The hydrogen will be delivered to 12 sites with hydrogen refuelling infrastructure.
• On April 25, 2022, euractiv.com published an article (under Fleets of hydrogen taxis are picking up across Europe) focussing on the activity in France, both policy setting and private sector progress. It is noted in the article that hydrogen is an ideal source for "random intensive uses like taxis". 

Hike in taxi plans:

On April 21, 2022, zefer reported that two pan-European projects have worked together to bring zero-emission hydrogen taxis and hydrogen refuelling infrastructure to the Copenhagen. The two pan-European projects are: ZEFER (Zero Emission taxi Fleets for European Rollout) and H2ME2 (Hydrogen Mobility Europe), funded by the EU Clean Hydrogen Partnership, and they have mobilised 100 zero emission taxis. 

Industrial Vehicles and Trucks: 

Wholesale switches:

• On April 2, 2022, is was reported widely that Lidl (retail giant) is transitioning its entire battery electric fleet (used in its logistics centres) to fuel cell technology, using Green Hydrogen. 
• On April 20, 2022, Plug Power announced that it had agreed with Walmart to supply Green Hydrogen (in liquid form) to power and to propel material handling lift trucks across the Walmart distribution and fulfilment centers in the US. 

Scania and Cummins aligned:

On April 8, 2022, it was announced that Scania is working with Cummins, Inc to develop 20 fuel cell electrical trucks to be fuelled by Green Hydrogen (for the HyTruck Project). Scania will manufacture the trucks, and Cummins will supply and install the fuel cells. The trucks will be delivered to Air Liquide and the Port of Rotterdam Authority as part of the HyTrucks Project. Edition 18 of Low Carbon Pulse has background on the HyTruck Project. 

Edmonton International Airport to convert to hydrogen:

On April 27, 2022, flyeia.com reported Edmonton International Airport was to participate in the VEXSL Hydrogen Project using Hydra Energy's retrofit solution and technology to convert trucks powered and propelled by diesel power plants to co-combust with hydrogen. 

Recharging and refuelling infrastructure:

Eni and Linde aligned:

On April 15, 2022, it was reported widely that Eni (leading international energy corporation) has opened the first hydrogen refuelling station in Venice, Italy, with equipment and infrastructure supplied and installed by Linde. 

Ever active Everfuel:

Everfuel to develop heavy-duty hydrogen station in Germany:

On April 8, 2022, it was reported widely that Everfuel GmbH had contracted with WSW mobil GmbH to develop and to deploy hydrogen refuelling infrastructure (including stations) to serve a fleet of fuel cell buses.

Everfuel to develop largest HRS in Denmark:

On April 21, 2022, Everfuel announced that, with Taulov Dry Port, it was to expand the green logistics hub at Fredericia to establish the largest hydrogen refuelling station in Denmark.

Ports Progress and Shipping Forecast:

Ferries and other craft:

Electric on blue:

On April 1, 2022, Norwegian Ship Design reported Cemre Shipyard and Torghatten Nord As had entered into a contract to build a new ferry for the Bognes – Lødingen route, in northern Norway. 

Sea Change edging closer to the water:

On April 21, 2022, it was reported widely that the launch of the Sea Change was ever closer, with a launch date of mid-May 2022 reported. Editions 19, 26 and 30 of Low Carbon Pulse have background about the Sea Change. 

Green Ports:

HyTransPortRTM get first customer:

On April 14, 2022, it was reported widely that Shell is the first customer for the hydrogen transportation pipeline in the Port of Rotterdam – the HyTransPortRTM. Shell is developing a Green Hydrogen production facility at the Conversion Park, Maavlakte (see Edition 27 of Low Carbon Pulse for the most recent coverage), with the Green Hydrogen will be transported through the HyTransPortRTM to allow the delivery of Green Hydrogen into networks to deliver Green Hydrogen to customers.

Green Corridors: 

• Australia to East Asia Green Corridor LoI: On April 6, 2022, it was reported widely that a letter of intent had been signed by BHP, Rio Tinto, Oldendorff Carriers and Star Bulk Carriers Corp to assess the development of a Green Corridor between Australia and East Asia, with the assessment being led by the Global Maritime Forum. See Editions 19 and 30 of Low Carbon Pulse for detail about the Global Maritime Forum, Green Corridors and the Clydebank Declaration.
• Chilean Green Corridors Network: On April 14, 2022, Maersk McKinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping announced that it had signed a formal agreement with the Ministry of Energy In Chile to establish a network of Green Corridors allowing for green maritime transportation of goods in and out of Chile.
• Maersk McKinney Møller Center for Zero Carbon Shipping is to undertake and to complete by the end of 2022 the assessment and mapping of the most promising Green Corridors, and will route the way for the development of Green Corridors identified. 

Green Shipping:

The World Bank values carbon:

On April 1, 2022, The World Bank published Carbon Revenues from International Shipping: Enabling an Effective and Equitable Energy Transition-Technical Paper. The Technical Paper is well-worth a read.

Bulk: Cement and Grain:

On April 5, 2022, it was announced by HeidelbergCement and Felleskjøpet AGRI that ENOVA (Norwegian government enterprise owned by the Ministry of Climate and Environment) had provided funding support for the zero-emission cargo ship, the With Orca. Editions 20 & 37 of Low Carbon Pulse have further background. 

DSME LCO2 carrier headed for the water:

On April 8, 2022, lngprime.com reported that Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering (DSME) that DSME had received classification society basic design approval for its 250 / 44 metre dimensioned vessel to carry liquid carbon dioxide (LCO2). The basic approval in principle is understood to make the DSME vessel the largest dimensioned LCO2 carrier to receive approval in principle to date, with containment tank capacity stated to be 70,000 m³.

Ammonia and LCO2 carrier updates:

On April 14, 2022, the Ammonia Energy Association posted an update, including the following Approvals in Principle (AiP): the concept design for a 50,000 m³ ammonia and LCO2 carrier form Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Ltd. and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the AIP from DNV for an ammonia powered and propelled 7,000 car carrier designed by China State Shipbuilding Corporation, and the AIP for the 7,500 m³ ammonia carrier, the MS Green Ammonia, designed by Grieg Edge and using a Wärtsilä W25dF ammonia engine. 

NZE emission carriers:

In addition to the cargoes that are to be carried, the carriers carrying those cargoes are progressing to become NZE emissions carriers. Mitsui O.S.K Lines, Ltd is reported to be aiming to deploy 110 NZE carriers by 2035. 

Yara bookends the month of April:

Yara International pacesetting:

On April 1, 2022, h2-view.com reported than Yara International was continuing to develop the world's first carbon-free ammonia fuel bunker network in Scandinavia. 

Yara Birkeland wetted:

On April 29, 2022, the Wilhelmsen Group announced the official christening of the Yara Birkeland, the world's first autonomous and zero-emission container vessel: the Yara Birkeland was developed in collaboration with Kongsberg Group and was built by VARD, and will transport mineral fertiliser between Porsgrunn and Brevik. 

Airports and Aviation:

Airbus Industries and Kawasaki Heavy Industries aligned:

On April 12, 2022, it was reported widely that Airbus and Kawasaki have agreed to work together to develop supply hydrogen supply chains to deliver hydrogen  and hydrogen-based fuels to airports, and to develop the accompanying hydrogen eco-systems.

ENEOS and TotalEnergies align:

On April 14, 2022, biofuel-news.com reported that ENEOS Corporation and TotalEnergies had agreed to work together to assess the feasibility of a SAF production facility at ENEOS' Negishi refinery in Japan. (ENEOS and TotalEnergies had previously commenced studies on supply). 

Air Products, Honeywell and World Energy SAF and sound:

On April 25, 2022, it was reported widely that Air Products, Honeywell and World Energy (a producer and supplier of SAF) are to work together to develop North America's first commercial scale SAF production facility in Paramount, California. 

The USD 2 billion SAF production facility (with current nameplate production capacity of 340 million gallons a year is to be located at the production hub of World Energy, using hydrogen supplied by Air Products, with Honeywell continuing to work with World Energy to continue to develop more efficient and new processes. 

The author of (and researcher for) each edition of Low Carbon Pulse is Michael Harrison.