Norway is taking significant steps towards becoming a global leader in sustainable maritime transport, as it works to establish the first functioning hydrogen value chain in the country. The aim is to make hydrogen a more accessible and viable fuel for shipping, ultimately contributing to reduced emissions in the maritime industry.
Support for Hydrogen Projects Along Norway’s Coastline
Enova, Norway’s state-owned climate and energy company, has pledged substantial funding to several hydrogen plants situated along the Norwegian coastline. The plants will form a network of hydrogen producers stretching from Slagentangen in the southeast to Bodø in the north, which is expected to significantly improve hydrogen accessibility for the sustainable shipping sector.
According to Nils Kristian Nakstad, CEO of Enova:
“The projects that receive support will be part of a network of hydrogen producers along the Norwegian coastline, from Slagentangen in the southeast to Bodø in the north. This will make hydrogen more accessible to those who want to invest in sustainable shipping.”
Details of the Supported Hydrogen Plants
The following hydrogen plants will receive significant support from Enova to boost hydrogen production and infrastructure:
- Slagentangen, Vestfold: NOK 144.11 million ($13.15 million)
- Egersund, Rogaland: NOK 206 million ($18.8 million)
- Florø, Vestland: NOK 180 million ($16.43 million)
- Kristiansund, Møre og Romsdal: NOK 118.66 million ($10.83 million)
- Bodø, Nordland: NOK 128.65 million ($11.74 million)
These projects, with a total production capacity of 120 MW, will produce approximately 40 tons of hydrogen per day, significantly contributing to Norway’s emission reduction goals. Together, these projects are expected to reduce emissions by 200,000 tonnes of CO2 per year, which represents 5.5% of national emissions from the shipping and fishing sectors.
Contributions to Global Emission Reduction
Tore O. Sandvik, Norway’s Climate and Environment Minister, emphasized the global impact of these initiatives:
“These projects can cut emissions in Norway but will also contribute to the transition in the rest of Europe and the world.”
Moreover, Energy Minister Terje Aasland highlighted Norway’s potential leadership in green shipping, noting:
“What we do to develop emission-free solutions for maritime transport here at home could have significance far beyond our borders.”
Broader Hydrogen and Ammonia Initiatives
Enova has also expanded its support for hydrogen and ammonia in the maritime sector through various initiatives, including support for production infrastructure, ammonia vessels, and hydrogen-powered ships. In 2024, Enova disclosed that 15 green ship projects would receive NOK 1.2 billion (around $113.5 million) in funding. This includes nine hydrogen vessels and six ammonia vessels.
Additionally, NOK 143 million (around $13.6 million) has been allocated to 17 shore power projects, further facilitating the transition to cleaner maritime energy solutions.
A Vision for the Future
Enova’s initiatives represent a significant leap towards a low-carbon maritime future, positioning Norway at the forefront of developing sustainable fuels like hydrogen and ammonia. The country’s commitment to decarbonizing the maritime sector is expected to have a ripple effect globally, fostering the adoption of green technologies and helping to shape the future of maritime transport.
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Source: Offshore Energy
