Horisont Energi and Fertiberia of Norway fortify Barents Blue partnership with joint development agreement

Norwegian energy frontrunner, Horisont Energi, has joined forces with distinguished European ammonia expert, Fertiberia, in a momentous joint development agreement (JDA). This partnership marks a significant step in the groundbreaking clean ammonia project known as Barents Blue. With the goal of driving Europe's path to carbon neutrality, Barents Blue represents a pioneering blue ammonia plant that not only leverages local resources but also holds immense promise in the realm of clean energy.

This collaboration builds upon a cooperative foundation laid down on February 1, 2023, reflecting a shared commitment to sustainable energy solutions. The 50/50 structured JDA signifies the mutual dedication of Horisont Energi and Fertiberia towards advancing the Barents Blue initiative. The initial phase aims to progress the project towards its first development expenditure (DEVEX) decision, subsequently leading to detailed engineering (DG2) and culminating in a Final Investment Decision.

Central to the joint development agreement is the synchronized utilization of internal resources and shared external costs, all aimed at facilitating the realization of the Barents Blue project, which centers around blue ammonia production. Post the successful first DEVEX decision, plans are in motion to establish a project special purpose vehicle (SPV) to oversee the project's trajectory.

A cornerstone of this partnership is Fertiberia's alignment with Horisont Energi's vision of fostering large-scale clean ammonia projects. Leveraging their expertise in ammonia plant operations, Fertiberia is determined to accelerate the transition towards carbon neutrality. Positioned to lead the development of Europe's clean ammonia market, Fertiberia's contribution significantly advances the Barents Blue project.

Horisont Energi's CEO, Bjørgulf Haukelidsæter Eidesen, highlights the profound implications of this partnership, underlining Fertiberia's commitment and competence as key drivers for Barents Blue's success. Eidesen expresses eagerness to collaborate with a partner that shares the goal of clean ammonia projects and the vision for a carbon-neutral future.

Javier Goñi del Cacho, CEO of Grupo Fertiberia, emphasizes their intent to harness their experience in ammonia plant operations to catalyze Barents Blue's development. The transformative potential of clean ammonia in sectors such as agriculture, energy, transport, and industry aligns with their sustainability objectives.

Fertiberia's commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2035 adds another layer of significance to the partnership. As a major provider of crop nutrition and environmental solutions in the European Union, Fertiberia is leading the way in sustainable practices.

Barents Blue itself holds great promise as Europe's largest clean ammonia production facility, situated in Northern Norway's Finnmark region. Supported by a grant from the EU IPCEI hydrogen program, Hy2Use, the project embodies energy efficiency and carbon capture, setting new standards in clean energy production.

With Fertiberia's involvement, a crucial piece falls into place for Barents Blue's realization. Recent power supply approval and a strategic focus on securing gas supply underscore the project's comprehensive approach. The partnership's engagement with potential gas sellers showcases their all-encompassing strategy to meet energy supply requirements.

Horisont Energi's commitment extends to forming a new license group for the Polaris carbon storage license associated with Barents Blue. The project's trajectory aligns with broader goals of supporting blue ammonia and hydrogen initiatives within Norwegian and European frameworks.

This strategic partnership exemplifies innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, and it's emblematic of the evolution towards cleaner energy. Through their combined efforts, Barents Blue becomes a significant contributor to Europe's carbon neutrality goals while showcasing the power of impactful partnerships in shaping a greener future.