Uniper Begins BioLNG Operations at Rotterdam Terminal
- 01-Aug-2024 1:46 PM
- Journalist: Nina Jiang
Uniper has taken a significant step in its decarbonization efforts by producing its first BioLNG at the Gate terminal in Rotterdam. This milestone marks the beginning of a fully integrated biomethane-BioLNG supply chain within Uniper. As the first shipper to utilize the terminal's BioLNG production capacity, Uniper is converting biomethane into BioLNG, furthering its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and advancing sustainable energy solutions.
The BioLNG produced is International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC) certified. This certification ensures the sustainability and carbon reduction of the product. The biogas, sourced from an EU member state, is upgraded to biomethane by removing impurities like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulphide before being fed into the Dutch natural gas grid. At the Gate terminal exit point, the biomethane is liquefied using the terminal’s existing infrastructure, which has a capacity of about 100,000 tons per year. This liquefied BioLNG can then be utilized by the existing shippers, integrating seamlessly into current operations.
This marks another significant step in developing a fully integrated biomethane-BioLNG supply chain within Uniper. This initiative aims to enhance the value of the Gate terminal asset while further reducing emissions across Uniper's portfolio. By leveraging the existing infrastructure and certified sustainable processes, Uniper is advancing its decarbonization efforts and contributing to a greener energy landscape.
Carsten Poppinga, Chief Commercial Officer of Uniper, expressed enthusiasm about advancing towards a greener future, stating, "The decarbonization of the market for marine and truck fuels will require the use of several low to zero-carbon fuels, and BioLNG is among the most important. It will contribute to meeting the emission reduction targets of the International Maritime Organization for seagoing vessels, including Uniper’s own LNG fleet. We are pleased that once again, we are able to generate incremental value from our Gate terminal asset."
Uniper, a multinational energy conglomerate headquartered in Düsseldorf, maintains a global footprint spanning over 40 countries. With a workforce of approximately 7,000, the company is a cornerstone of European energy security, particularly in its core markets of Germany, the UK, Sweden, and the Netherlands. Uniper’s core competencies encompass European power generation, global energy trading, and a comprehensive gas portfolio. The company's operations involve the procurement of gas, including LNG, from international markets, coupled with the ownership and operation of gas storage infrastructure capable of storing over 7 billion cubic meters.
Uniper has outlined an ambitious decarbonization strategy targeting complete carbon neutrality by 2040. The company aims to achieve over 80% zero-carbon power generation capacity by 2030 through facility upgrades and investments in flexible, dispatchable power sources. Leveraging its existing hydropower portfolio and expanding renewable energy assets, Uniper is positioning itself as a key player in the transition to a sustainable energy future. To complement its growing renewable energy capacity, the company is transitioning its gas portfolio towards green alternatives such as hydrogen and biomethane.