Finland's Largest E-SAF Production Plant to Elevate Oulu as a Hydrogen Hub
Key Ideas
  • Verso Energy and City of Oulu signed a cooperation agreement to build a hydrogen processing plant aiming to produce 80,000 tonnes of e-SAF annually, boosting the green transition in the region.
  • The project, valued at €1.4 billion, is expected to create 250 jobs and showcases Finland's potential in emission-free aviation fuel production.
  • The co-operation agreement sets the stage for zoning the industrial area, preparing for the final investment decision, and further detailing investments and responsibilities.
  • The agreement, valid until 2026, highlights Finland's attractive environment for e-SAF production and the collaborative efforts to drive sustainable development in the region.
The City of Oulu in Finland and Verso Energy from France have entered a significant cooperation agreement to establish a hydrogen processing plant in Oulu with a focus on producing 80,000 tonnes of e-SAF per year. This project, estimated at €1.4 billion, is set to create 250 job opportunities while positioning Oulu as a pivotal hydrogen hub in the Nordics. The CEO of Verso Energy emphasized the region's potential for emission-free aviation fuel production and commended the city's commitment to sustainability. Verso Energy's synthetic fuel production, based on renewable hydrogen and biogenic CO2 captured from nearby mills, aligns with the EU's directive for airports to include a 2% blend of sustainable aviation fuel starting this year. The agreement paves the way for zoning the Port of Oulu for green transition industrial purposes and streamlines the planning and permit processes for Verso Energy. The involvement of various local entities such as BusinessOulu, Port of Oulu, Oulun Energia, and Oulu Waterworks underscores the collaborative approach to green investments in the region. The cooperation agreement, active until 2026, focuses on propelling the project towards the implementation phase by defining key aspects like investments and responsibilities. The Mayor of Oulu expressed satisfaction with the project's progress and highlighted the city's role in facilitating green transitions and attracting investments. The agreement signifies a clear commitment to sustainable growth and underscores the city's dedication to creating an environmentally friendly industrial landscape.
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