Nextchem Tech and Vallourec Forge Partnership in Hydrogen Storage Solutions

MAIRE has announced a strategic collaboration between NextChem Tech, a subsidiary of NEXTCHEM (Sustainable Technology Solutions), and Vallourec, a renowned provider of premium tubular solutions for energy markets. The agreement entails integrating NEXTCHEM’s proprietary green ammonia technology with Vallourec’s Delphy hydrogen storage technology, with a focus on subsequent commercialization. This partnership aims to explore the integration of Delphy storage solutions into "Power-to-X" and green hydrogen projects where NEXTCHEM serves as the technology provider globally. The collaboration emphasizes leveraging the synergies between NEXTCHEM’s advanced green ammonia production technologies and Vallourec's high-capacity hydrogen storage system.

NEXTCHEM's green ammonia technology is distinguished by its capability to produce carbon-free ammonia utilizing renewable energy sources, thereby departing from conventional fossil fuel-based processes. Furthermore, NEXTCHEM's technology boasts competitive advantages in terms of capital expenditure (CAPEX), offering modularization and employing a proven design supplemented with digital solutions for training and process monitoring. With a portfolio of operational plants, NEXTCHEM's technology holds a solid reference base.

The combination of NEXTCHEM's green ammonia production technology with Vallourec's Delphy underground storage system is anticipated to furnish a secure, efficient, and economically feasible solution to cater to green hydrogen producers and industrial clients.

Upon the successful conclusion of joint feasibility studies, NextChem Tech will assume the role of exclusive global licensor for the technology package amalgamating NEXTCHEM’s small-scale green ammonia production technology with Vallourec’s hydrogen storage system. The commercialization of this technology package will be overseen by one of NEXTCHEM’s subsidiaries. This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of NEXTCHEM and Vallourec to drive the transition toward a low-carbon industry, characterized by reduced energy consumption and the provision of environmentally friendly solutions through a circular approach.

Mohammed Nafid, CEO of NextChem Tech, remarked, "The merging of these two technologies serves as a fundamental cornerstone, enhancing the adaptability of green ammonia production to the intermittency of renewable energy sources. Our array of technologies in the energy transition and hydrogen sector is expanding, introducing yet another pivotal tool that will greatly enhance our capabilities in this field. This collaboration between NextChem Tech and Vallourec signifies another significant stride forward in the implementation of MAIRE Group's strategy focused on sustainable technologies."

Maire Tecnimont S.p.A., a publicly traded entity on the Milan Stock Exchange, serves as the flagship of a prominent global industrial conglomerate engaged in Nitrogen, Hydrogen, circular carbon, fuels, chemicals, and polymers. The company operates through two primary divisions: Sustainable Technology Solutions and Integrated E&C Solutions. With a robust international presence spanning approximately 45 nations, Maire Tecnimont Group encompasses around 50 operational entities and employs over 9,300 individuals. NEXTCHEM represents MAIRE's specialized division focusing on Sustainable Technology Solutions.