HAMR Energy Chooses Thyssenkrupp Technology for Key Green Methanol Initiative

Australian low-carbon fuels and chemicals firm HAMR Energy has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with chemical engineering expert thyssenkrupp Uhde to support the development of the AUD 2 billion Portland Renewable Fuels Project, aimed at decarbonizing the shipping industry.

The partnership will have thyssenkrupp Uhde provide a facility that combines its proven PRENFLOR® gasification technology with its advanced uhde® green methanol technology to transform forestry residue into valuable green chemicals. This large-scale Green Methanol project is expected to produce 300,000 tonnes per annum of green methanol.

HAMR Energy Director David Stribley stated that the agreement represents a significant advancement toward the company's objective of developing one million tonnes of Green Methanol by 2030.

"We're thrilled to partner with a company as capable as thyssenkrupp," said Mr. Stribley. "Our visions are perfectly aligned, and this marks a key milestone in addressing the significant demand for clean fuels within the global shipping industry. Green Methanol is an eco-friendly, market-ready, and technologically advanced solution poised to power ships worldwide. Collaborating with thyssenkrupp allows us to make crucial strategic advances on a global scale while also creating local jobs in Australia."

Headquartered in Germany, thyssenkrupp Uhde is poised to contribute its scale and expertise to the Portland Renewable Fuels Project, providing environmentally friendly solutions designed to address future challenges.

Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde, stated that the agreement underscores the company's mission and its innovative approach to developing carbon-free value chains.

"We are enthusiastic about partnering with HAMR Energy on this significant project, addressing the demand for shipping fuel while making a tangible impact on a carbon-intensive industry," Håkansson said.

David Stribley noted that the international shipping industry’s substantial carbon footprint—twice that of Australia’s emissions—highlights the urgent need to scale up this ready-made solution.

"Adopting low-carbon fuels in the shipping sector can significantly reduce global emissions."

"The Portland Renewable Fuels Project positions Australia in the global sustainable fuels market. With strong industry support and boundless demand, and thyssenkrupp's involvement, we are well-equipped to drive this project forward swiftly."

HAMR has enlisted Sayers Group as its strategic advisers.

The Portland Renewable Fuels project aims to produce 300,000 tonnes of green methanol annually, which is comparable to removing 80,000 cars from the road or offsetting 150,000 tonnes of fossil fuels. The project is currently in progress and is expected to be operational by 2029.

Victoria's competitive edge, strategic investments, and ambitious renewable energy goals present a unique opportunity for a thriving renewable hydrogen market. The Victorian Government is backing the Portland Renewable Fuels Project with $500,000 from its Portland Diversification Fund to support a feasibility study.