The import of renewable energy is both technically and economically feasible, according to a new study from the hydrogen import coalition.
The coalition, comprising DEME, Engie, Exmar, Fluxys, Port of Antwerp, Port of Zeebrugge and WaterstofNet, has now completed a large-scale industrial study mapping out the financial, technical and regulatory aspects of the entire hydrogen import chain.
It scope starts from production abroad to delivery via ships and pipelines to Belgium and internal distribution, providing a basis for the further roll-out to industrial applications.
After thorough analysis of all the elements, the study concludes that importing this form of renewable energy is a necessary and feasible solution to the growing shortage in Western Europe.
Various types of hydrogen-derived carriers from a range of supply regions will be able to provide cost-competitive renewable energy and raw materials by 2030-2035, it found.
The most promising green energy carriers are ammonia, methanol and synthetic methane.
These can be deployed through existing modes of transport – such as pipelines and maritime transport in particular – and growing markets, encouraging a rapid start.
According to the study, this import of renewable energy through green hydrogen carriers will therefore become an essential part of our energy supply, complementing the sustainable transition based on domestically generated energy.
Belgium has maritime ports and extensive pipeline infrastructure, is linked to the major industrial clusters and has the capacity to meet its own energy needs and those of surrounding countries.
The coalition partners will now analyse how to prepare their seaports to receive the hydrogen carriers of the future, seeking maximum synergy to serve our national interests.
Specific pilot projects are being set up whereby we can make maximum use of the Flemish expertise and strength in the area of logistics, industry and technology for the development of a sustainable economy and the climate transition in our own region and a broader hinterland.
Prime Minister of Belgium Alexander De Croo said: “Hydrogen will play a decisive role in the energy transition and in making our industry sustainable.
“This study provides essential new insights for the further roll-out of a hydrogen economy and the further reduction of CO2 emissions.
“The next step is to develop a long-term strategy for importing hydrogen.”
DEME chief executive Luc Vandenbulcke added: “Belgium can play a leading role in the green hydrogen economy and doing so, further reduce CO2 emissions.
“The results of the study are an important step forward in realising these ambitions.
“The combination of renewable energy with green hydrogen in the energy supply is fully in line with DEME’s decarbonisation strategy.
“DEME is now looking forward to the realisation of green hydrogen projects, both in Belgium and abroad.”