Innovative Circular Methanol and Hydrogen Production Plant to Drive Sustainability in Italy
Key Ideas
- MET Development, Eni, and Iren Ambiente are collaborating to build a plant in Sannazzaro de' Burgondi capable of producing circular methanol and hydrogen from waste, supporting sustainable fuel production.
- The plant, utilizing NEXTCHEM's NX Circular technology, will convert 200,000 tons of non-recyclable waste annually into synthesis gas, resulting in approximately 110,000 tons of circular methanol and 1,500 tons of circular hydrogen production.
- The circular methanol can be used for decarbonizing the maritime sector, while the circular hydrogen can aid in refinery processes or sustainable mobility, contributing to reduced CO2 emissions.
- In addition to fuel production, the plant will recover inert granulate for the cement industry, aligning with EU Renewable Energy Directive standards and promoting a circular economy approach for waste management and energy transition.
MET Development (MAIRE), Eni, and Iren Ambiente have initiated the permitting process for a groundbreaking circular methanol and hydrogen production plant at Eni's refinery in Sannazzaro de' Burgondi, Italy. The plant, a collaboration between the companies, will leverage NEXTCHEM's NX Circular technology to convert 200,000 tons of non-recyclable waste annually into synthesis gas for sustainable fuel and chemical production. This initiative aims to produce around 110,000 tons of circular methanol and 1,500 tons of circular hydrogen per year. The circular methanol will serve as an eco-friendly alternative for decarbonizing the maritime industry, while the circular hydrogen can be utilized in refinery processes or sustainable transportation, aiding in CO2 emission reduction. Furthermore, the plant will recover 33,000 tons per year of inert granulate for the cement industry, promoting decarbonization in this sector. The project not only aligns with EU Renewable Energy Directive guidelines but also optimizes costs by utilizing existing infrastructure at the refinery in Sannazzaro. Fabio Fritelli, NEXTCHEM's Managing Director, highlighted the project's potential to foster environmental sustainability and economic development, positioning Italian ports at the forefront of environmentally friendly fuel adoption required by global regulations.