NextChem to Explore Innovative Low-Carbon Fertilizer Project in France

MAIRE has announced that NEXTCHEM, a division specializing in Sustainable Technology Solutions, has secured a contract from FertigHy for a Feasibility Study and Pre-FEED (Front-End Engineering Design) project. This contract will utilize NEXTCHEM’s NX Stami Green AmmoniaTM and NX Stami Nitric AcidTM technologies, alongside its expertise in hydrogen and electrolyzer systems, to deliver a comprehensive technical solution.

Established in 2023, the FertigHy consortium includes prominent stakeholders such as EIT InnoEnergy, RIC Energy, MAIRE, Siemens Financial Services, InVivo, and HEINEKEN. This consortium exemplifies the commitment of European industrial leaders to invest in the region’s ongoing decarbonization efforts.

The inaugural plant, scheduled to commence construction in 2027, is designed to produce 500,000 tons of low-carbon nitrogen-based fertilizers annually. This production will utilize hydrogen sourced from renewable and low-carbon electricity, aligning with global sustainability goals. FertigHy, the consortium behind this initiative, plans to replicate this cutting-edge model across various European countries. Each new plant has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, with projections indicating a decrease of up to one million tons of CO2 per year per plant. This widespread adoption aims to revolutionize the fertilizer industry, contributing to both environmental preservation and enhanced food security.

Alessandro Bernini, MAIRE’s CEO, stated that the fertilizers industry plays a crucial role in national economies, and MAIRE is honored to support its sustainability both in Europe and worldwide. He highlighted that MAIRE’s comprehensive approach, which spans from project development to execution, enables them to offer advanced technological solutions to the fertilizer sector. These solutions are designed to help the industry meet the decarbonization targets mandated by EU regulations. Bernini emphasized MAIRE’s commitment to enhancing the environmental performance of the fertilizers industry through innovative and sustainable practices, reinforcing their leadership in promoting a greener and more sustainable future for agriculture.

NEXTCHEM will leverage its advanced NX Stami Green AmmoniaTM and NX Stami Nitric AcidTM technologies to design an efficient and sustainable process for the FertigHy project. FertigHy, a consortium of leading European industrial players, is dedicated to addressing global food security challenges through innovative low-carbon fertilizer solutions. The consortium's first plant, scheduled for construction in France, will have the capacity to produce nitrogen-based fertilizers annually. This initiative aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions while providing essential agricultural inputs, thereby contributing to both environmental sustainability and enhanced food production.

Maire Tecnimont S.p.A., a Milan Stock Exchange-listed entity, leads a prominent global industrial group specializing in Nitrogen, Hydrogen, circular carbon, fuels and chemicals, and polymers. The company excels in providing Sustainable Technology Solutions and Integrated Engineering & Construction (E&C) Solutions. With a presence in approximately 45 countries, the Maire Tecnimont Group encompasses around 50 operating subsidiaries and employs over 9,300 professionals worldwide.