New Terranova joint venture to produce green hydrogen in Zelzate

Dredging and marine engineering companies DEME and Jan De Nul, and Aertssen Group in JV Terranova, specialized in infrastructure works, join forces with energy providers Luminus and Nippon Gases to build and exploit a production unit for green hydrogen in Zelzate. The companies have established a new partnership Terranova Hydrogen NV.

The three companies will construct an electrolysis unit of 2,5 MW to produce green hydrogen, including the storage capacity and a compression and filling station. On top of that, the possibility exists to expand the installation up to 5 MW.

‘CO2-neutral energy’

An Smet, Director of Environmental Activities at Jan De Nul: “Jan De Nul has a leading role in the development of sustainable energy projects and is a pioneer in energy transition. This project is a logical step for our company because it reflects both our commitment to renewable activities and our care for the environment.”

Grégoire Dallemagne, CEO of Luminus: “Luminus wants to build a CO2-neutral energy future in which protecting the planet, human wellbeing, and economical growth are aligned with each other. […] This project fits perfectly in our strategy, and we are proud to contribute to its implementation.”

‘Climate-neutral industry’

Frank Rutten, Managing Director of Nippon Gases: “To reach a CO2-neutral world, it’s important to go from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Nippon Gases commits to helping its clients in making this transition in the future possible. This hydrogen production based on exclusively green energy is for us an example of what a climate-neutral industry can look like.”

The green hydrogen will be produced on the Terranovasite in the North Sea Port in Zelzate with locally generated green energy. As part of the rollout of the “Flemish Hydrogen Vision,” the Flemish government granted strategic support of 4,33 million euros to Terranova Hydrogen NV at the end of 2022.

Meanwhile, the permit was also obtained, and Terranova NV started the preparatory works on the site. Production of the first hydrogen molecule is planned for early 2025.