Rolf Brouwer, Managing Director of German LNG Terminal GmbH, emphasises: “RWE’s interest in jointly exploring the import of hydrogen in Brunsbüttel proves the strategic importance of the site and the project. Hydrogen produced from renewable energy sources is in line with Germany’s goal to become climate-neutral by 2050.”
Domestic production will not be able to meet the anticipated future demand, posing the need for import of the climate friendly fuel. LNG import terminals like Brunsbüttel can be combined with entry points for (liquid) hydrogen produced in other regions of the world where wind and solar energy are available at larger scale and lower cost than in Germany. Existing gas pipelines connected to the LNG terminal are perfectly fit to distribute hydrogen locally.
Javier Moret, Global Head of LNG at RWE Supply & Trading GmbH, explains: “We are advocates of LNG. It can provide Germany with clean and affordable energy today and at the same time contribute to reducing emissions in the maritime and road transport sector as an alternative fuel. At the same time, we want to make sure we are prepared for the next technological advancement. In the future hydrogen will play a key role as a climate-neutral fuel in the energy mix. We are prepared for this next step with the new agreement. Therefore, we are happy to support German LNG Terminals’ initiative in this field.”
Currently the parties are in the final phase of negotiating fully binding legal contracts for LNG imports. RWE and German LNG expect this process to be finalised by the end of 2020, putting German LNG in a position to reach a positive investment decision shortly thereafter.
