H2SITE and Petronor partner to deploy advanced membrane technology for efficient hydrogen production and lower-carbon refinery operations.
H2SITE and Petronor have entered into a strategic partnership to introduce an innovative hydrogen separation project at Petronor’s refinery, marking a major advancement in cleaner and more efficient hydrogen production within the refining sector. This first-of-its-kind initiative will incorporate H2SITE’s proprietary membrane separation technology into the refinery’s existing Steam Methane Reforming (SMR) process, with the goal of improving hydrogen recovery, increasing plant efficiency, and creating stronger opportunities for carbon dioxide capture.
H2SITE, known for its expertise in advanced hydrogen production and separation technologies, will work closely with Petronor S.A., one of the leading refining companies and a major industrial player in the energy sector. Together, the two companies aim to develop a First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) unit that demonstrates how membrane reactor systems can be successfully integrated into refinery operations at an industrial scale. This collaboration represents a significant step toward decarbonizing traditional refining processes while maintaining strong operational performance and economic competitiveness.
The project is designed to improve the efficiency of hydrogen production by placing H2SITE’s membrane reactor downstream of existing reformers. This setup allows for greater hydrogen recovery from the reforming process while reducing overall net energy consumption. By increasing hydrogen output and lowering energy demand, the system can significantly improve process yields and reduce emissions intensity. Additionally, the enhanced separation process supports more effective CO2 capture, helping refineries align with stricter environmental standards and sustainability goals.
Petronor’s engineering and operations teams will play a central role in the project, working in close coordination with H2SITE’s technical specialists. Their combined expertise in refinery operations, industrial integration, and large-scale project execution is expected to accelerate the successful deployment of this advanced solution. The partnership highlights the importance of combining cutting-edge technology with deep industrial knowledge to create scalable and commercially viable pathways for low-carbon hydrogen production.
According to Andrés Galnares, CEO of H2SITE, the collaboration with Petronor offers an important opportunity to demonstrate the real-world value of the company’s membrane reactor technology at full refinery scale. He emphasized that the FOAK installation is intended not only to improve hydrogen recovery and reduce energy requirements but also to establish a repeatable model for future industrial expansion. By proving the technology in an operational refinery environment, H2SITE aims to reduce risk for future commercial deployment and support rapid market adoption across the refining industry.
José Ignacio Zudaire, CEO of Petronor, described the partnership as a key milestone in the company’s strategy to create more efficient and lower-carbon refining operations. He noted that integrating advanced membrane technology into existing refinery assets will strengthen hydrogen management, improve carbon capture potential, and enhance the long-term competitiveness of Petronor’s industrial facilities. He also stated that the project reflects the company’s strong commitment to innovation and its broader ambition to transform refining into a more sustainable and environmentally responsible industry.
This partnership between H2SITE and Petronor demonstrates how innovation in hydrogen technologies can support the transition toward cleaner industrial operations. As global industries continue to seek practical decarbonization solutions, projects like this FOAK installation provide a strong example of how traditional refining can evolve through technological advancement and strategic collaboration.
