EssarEnergy Transition Unveils EET Hydrogen Power Initiative

Essar Energy Transition (EET) has announced the launch of EET Hydrogen Power, Europe’s first hydrogen-ready Combined Heat and Power (CHP) plant, slated for construction at its Stanlow refinery, with completion targeted for 2027. This initiative aims to bolster EET Fuels’ goal of becoming the lowest carbon process refinery worldwide and to position EET Hydrogen as the UK's leading low carbon hydrogen producer. The plant will also supply low carbon power to other industrial users in the region, aiding their decarbonisation efforts. EET Hydrogen Power will operate as an independent vertical within EET.

The development of EET Hydrogen Power will occur in two phases, ultimately achieving a capacity of 125 MW of power and 6,000 tonnes of steam per day. By replacing hydrocarbons with hydrogen, the plant is expected to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 740,000 tonnes annually. It will replace Stanlow’s existing boiler units, which currently produce about 50 MW of power for refinery operations. EET Fuels' new plant represents a significant milestone in their ambitious decarbonization strategy for the Stanlow refinery.  This strategic investment positions them to become the world's lowest carbon refinery by 2030, achieving a remarkable 95% reduction in total emissions.

EET Hydrogen Power is a pivotal infrastructure project that not only supports the decarbonisation objectives of the HyNet industrial cluster but also sets a precedent for future industrial and power sector decarbonisation efforts. This initiative is integral to EET’s commitment to fostering high-skilled employment in the North West, contributing to regional economic growth.

The investment in Europe’s first hydrogen-ready power plant forms a crucial component of EET’s broader $3.0 billion energy transition strategy in the North West of England. This project underscores EET's dedication to sustainability and innovation in energy production, driving significant environmental and economic benefits.

EET comprises multiple strategic units: EET Hydrogen Power, EET Fuels, EET Hydrogen, and Stanlow Terminals Ltd. EET Hydrogen Power is spearheading Europe's first hydrogen-ready combined heat and power plant. EET Fuels operates the Stanlow Refinery, aiming to become the world's lowest carbon process refinery. EET Hydrogen is developing over 1.35 GW of blue and green hydrogen capacity for the UK market, with plans to scale up to 4 GW. Stanlow Terminals Ltd, the UK’s largest independent bulk liquid storage terminal, is enhancing transport and storage infrastructure for biofuels and new energies, reinforcing EET’s commitment to energy transition and sustainability.

Tony Fountain, Managing Partner of Essar Energy Transition, highlighted the launch of EET Hydrogen Power as a significant step forward in fulfilling the company's commitment to positioning the UK at the forefront of low carbon energy. He emphasized that EET Hydrogen Power brings this commitment to life and showcases their global intent to demonstrate pathways for decarbonizing crucial high-emitting industries.

Rob Wallace, Chief Executive Officer of EET Hydrogen Power, shared their ambitious vision for Stanlow to transform into a low carbon transition hub at the heart of the HyNet Industrial Cluster. He highlighted that EET Hydrogen Power will be Europe’s first gas-turbine plant fully prepared for 100% hydrogen, supplied by EET Hydrogen’s low carbon hydrogen. Wallace noted that this project will significantly contribute to achieving regional emissions reduction targets, emphasizing its substantial benefits for the area.