Saudi Arabia's state oil giant, Aramco, announced on Monday its intention to collaborate with Danish decarbonization company Topsoe in constructing a pilot lower-carbon hydrogen plant in Denmark. This strategic partnership underscores Aramco's commitment to advancing sustainability initiatives and reducing carbon emissions.
The proposed Danish plant will utilize renewable electricity to produce lower-carbon hydrogen, primarily intended for power generation. An integral part of this initiative is the capture and sequestration of resulting carbon dioxide emissions, contributing to overall environmental preservation.
With a production capacity of 6 tons of hydrogen per day, this pilot plant is envisioned as a precursor to a larger-scale project. Aramco's long-term plan includes the establishment of a pilot plant with an annual carbon dioxide capture capacity of 1,250 metric tons, marking a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions on a larger scale.
Aramco is actively engaged in several initiatives aimed at mitigating carbon emissions. In collaboration with Siemens Energy, the company is developing a direct air capture test unit located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. This unit is expected to remove 12 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere annually and is slated for completion in 2024.
Additionally, Aramco has successfully conducted a pilot program for carbon dioxide sequestration. This innovative approach involves dissolving CO2 in water and injecting it into volcanic rocks in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, contributing to the exploration of effective carbon capture techniques.
In line with its commitment to renewable energy, Aramco is exploring the potential of geothermal energy. The company has identified and mapped three promising areas on the kingdom's west coast, reflecting its dedication to diversifying its renewable energy portfolio.
Aramco's collaboration with Topsoe in Denmark, along with its other carbon reduction initiatives, positions the company at the forefront of efforts to address climate change and transition towards cleaner energy sources.
