Energy trio Aims to Establish Large-Scale Green Hydrogen Plant on Åland

CIP, Flexens, and Lhyfe have come together to establish a groundbreaking partnership dedicated to the development of a pioneering energy island. This innovative project, known as the Åland Energy Island, is set to seamlessly integrate large-scale offshore wind power generation with hydrogen production, ushering in a new era of sustainable energy solutions.

The core objective of the Åland Energy Island project is to support the energy security and decarbonization goals of the region and the European Union. It will achieve this by harnessing the untapped wind resources surrounding Åland, a strategically positioned archipelago located between Sweden and Finland. This unique initiative is designed to produce green hydrogen, which is a clean and sustainable energy source that has gained significant attention in the global transition towards renewable energy.

The precise configuration and development of the Åland Energy Island project will be undertaken in close collaboration with the local government and other key stakeholders in the region. This inclusive approach ensures that the project aligns with the specific needs and goals of the local community, promoting a mutually beneficial outcome.

CIP, as the world's largest dedicated fund manager specializing in greenfield renewable energy investments, brings its wealth of experience and expertise to the table. CIP is well-versed in leading projects related to offshore wind energy, green hydrogen production, and energy islands. Thomas Dalsgaard, a partner at CIP, underscored the importance of this project, emphasizing its potential to enhance the regional offshore wind industry. The project is poised to support Åland's aspirations regarding local economic value creation and job opportunities. Additionally, it plays a vital role in advancing the broader region's energy transition and fostering greater energy independence.

Lhyfe, a key player in the partnership, brings a strong track record to the initiative. The company currently operates one hydrogen plant in France and is in the process of constructing seven additional plants in Sweden, France, and Germany. Of particular note is the fact that Lhyfe operates the world's first offshore hydrogen production plant, known as Sealhyfe. This innovative facility is powered by a floating wind turbine, a groundbreaking approach that demonstrates Lhyfe's commitment to pioneering large-scale onshore and offshore projects.

Taia Kronborg, Chief Business Officer at Lhyfe, hailed the project as a significant recognition of the company's capabilities in developing expansive renewable energy projects. She highlighted the project's importance in showcasing how hydrogen can seamlessly integrate into a comprehensive renewable energy system. By storing and transforming renewable electricity, hydrogen proves its value as a key component of a sustainable energy future. The Åland Energy Island project is expected to serve as a model for Europe, offering valuable insights into the potential of hydrogen within integrated renewable energy systems.\

Flexens, a local player based in Åland, brings invaluable regional insights and knowledge to the partnership. The company is deeply involved in developing hydrogen projects and is well-versed in infrastructure development on Åland. Its understanding of how local integration can benefit the region's energy system is a valuable asset to the project. Berndt Scahlin from Flexens emphasized the unique opportunity to elevate renewable energy-related activities in Åland and establish it as a hub of skills and knowledge for the offshore-based energy future of the entire Baltic Sea region.

Beyond its technological and economic significance, the Åland Energy Island project aligns with the region's ambitions to boost employment in line with government goals. Additionally, the initiative dovetails with Åland's aspirations to transform into a society primarily powered by green energy, underlining the holistic approach to environmental sustainability and economic growth.