Norwegian energy company Freya is planning a large hydrogen-based production plant for Nokia in Pirkanmaa. The plant, when realized, would bring significant investments to the region and create jobs. This would be an entity in the billions range. It was also reported today, Wednesday About the planned hydrogen plant in Naantali.
According to the release, Freija produces e-methane from pure hydrogen and biogenic carbon dioxide with a cost-effective modular and patented solution that has an integrated electrolysis plant.
An environmental impact assessment program has been started for the project, and Freija has started the engineering studies of the design phase. The project is planned to be implemented in three phases, each of which is responsible for one facility. The final production capacity is 58,000 tons of renewable e-methane. Production in the facility being built in the first phase could start in 2029.
“Finland’s goal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions is ambitious, and it offers green industry supportive and predictable operating conditions, fossil-free energy and a very well-educated workforce. The Tampere region is ideal, as there are opportunities for scaling here, and biogenic carbon dioxide, renewable energy and strong local partners are available. In addition, it is close to export ports and national gas networks,” says Freija’s CEO Christian Hauglum in the bulletin.
“European heavy transport and shipping companies are increasing the demand for e-methane in an effort to reduce emissions and comply with EU regulations. Freija has already signed several cooperation agreements covering 60 percent of the capacity of the first factory. Negotiations are ongoing for a similar amount more. This supports long-term value creation for all stakeholders,” adds Hauglum.
Clean fuels are carbon-neutral alternatives to fossil fuels in truck traffic and as fuel for ships. E-methane is a renewable RFNBO-certified fuel that can replace fossil gas with current technology and infrastructure. The natural gas network can be used for e-methane transfers.
Currently, traffic causes 16 percent of the world’s CO2 emissions. The e-methane produced by one of Freija’s factories enables an annual reduction of 200,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions by replacing fossil fuels.
Serial entrepreneur in the background
Freya belongs Vanir Green Industriesin (VGI) to the business cluster created around it.
In addition to Freija, its current portfolio includes e.g Plasterwho wanders from the steel factory to Inkoose.
The founder of VGI is Tore Ivar Slettemoen. Slettemoen is a serial entrepreneur and listed on the New York Stock Exchange Freyr Batteries founder.
Freyr Batteries developed a battery cell factory project in Vaasa, but has since abandoned it. Freyr Batteries continues to develop the cathode material factory in Vaasa.