Glocal Green AS and Norwegian Hydrogen AS have advanced their collaboration by finalizing a cooperation agreement to develop and establish hydrogen production linked to Glocal Green’s upcoming bio-methanol facility. This development follows a two-year period of intensive study and discussions since their initial letter of intent.
The production of hydrogen will be managed through a new joint venture, demonstrating a synergistic relationship between the two companies. “This agreement marks a significant achievement in our collaborative efforts, promising a win-win situation for both parties and efficiency gains that will benefit the entire value chain, including the market,” said Dag Nikolai Ryste, CEO of Glocal Green AS.
The planned bio-methanol will be synthesized from low-grade biological residues and by-products sourced from forestry, agriculture, and the marine sector. The integration of hydrogen into the production process will enable the complete utilization of green carbon, effectively doubling the methanol output. This enhanced product is designated as bio-e-methanol.
The demand for this environmentally friendly methanol is rapidly increasing, particularly within the chemical industry and as an alternative to fossil fuels in maritime and aviation sectors. “The global power shortage underscores the importance of high transition efficiency. Our innovative approach, which combines bio-waste with hydrogen, optimizes energy use, converting both biomass energy and added hydrogen into a highly efficient output,” explained Ryste.
The initial project in Øyer, Gudbrandsdalen, aims to produce annually 150,000 tons of bio-e-methanol and will include local production of 15,000 tons of green hydrogen through electrolysis. “This symbiosis exemplifies the potential of combining hydrogen production with bio-methanol manufacturing, enhancing Norwegian Hydrogen AS’s role in the hydrogen sector,” stated Jens Berge, CEO of Norwegian Hydrogen AS.
This partnership is set to create significant synergies by co-locating hydrogen and bio-methanol production facilities, offering sustainable solutions to meet the growing global demand for green fuels. The collaboration looks forward to leveraging these opportunities both in Norway and internationally, with plans to expand similar projects throughout the Nordic region.
