In a significant step towards establishing a major hydrogen import hub in Europe, Höegh Evi, a global leader in marine energy infrastructure, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SEMOP Port-La Nouvelle to develop a floating terminal for hydrogen imports. This terminal, to be located in Port-La Nouvelle, France, will serve as a vital infrastructure piece to supply clean hydrogen from producers in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Americas to the European market.

The planned terminal, set to handle up to 210,000 tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2030, will be instrumental in advancing Europe’s energy transition, according to Erik Nyheim, President & CEO of Höegh Evi. "With its strategic location, Port-La Nouvelle is ideally positioned to become a key entry point for hydrogen and low-carbon fuels," Nyheim stated, adding that the partnership aims to drive Europe’s clean energy goals forward.

The project is part of a broader effort to integrate hydrogen into Europe’s energy system, linking Port-La Nouvelle to major hydrogen transport networks such as HySoW Hydrogen and the pipeline operator Teréga. By connecting the port to regional and continental infrastructure, the terminal will enhance the industrial and economic appeal of the Occitanie region and support new jobs in green energy.

Hans Kerstens, CEO of SEMOP Port-La Nouvelle, commented, "The port is eager to play a key role in Europe’s green transition, particularly in hydrogen." The collaboration includes a feasibility assessment and design phase for the port's infrastructure solution, targeting a launch date aligned with pipeline developments.

Source: fuelcellsworks.com