SunGas Renewables Backs Green Hydrogen and Methanol Initiative in Tasmania

In a significant development, SunGas Renewables has been chosen as the provider for green methanol to an Australian hydrogen project situated in northern Tasmania. The ABEL Energy Bell Pay Powerfuels Project, anticipated to generate 300,000 tonnes of green methanol annually, has enlisted Johnson Matthey (JM) to supply essential technologies for the project.

This ambitious endeavor, requiring 240 megawatts (MW) of electrolysis to produce green hydrogen, incorporates robust methanol synthesis and biomass gasification technologies. SunGas Renewables plays a pivotal role in this project by deploying its cutting-edge renewable syngas generation unit, the SunGas System 1000™. Specifically designed to convert renewable-sourced wood fiber into renewable syngas, this innovative technology is integral to producing renewable biofuels for the facility at Bell Bay.

JM, recognized for its expertise, optimized the design of the methanol synthesis loop and combined it with its highly resilient methanol synthesis catalyst. The incorporation of green hydrogen into the process not only enhances methanol production but also contributes to increased carbon utilization efficiency. The collaborative efforts of SunGas Renewables, ABEL Energy, and JM involved closely working on design and optimization studies to seamlessly integrate these technologies into the proposed facility, with an expected commencement in 2027.

Alberto Giovanzana, the Managing Director of CT Licensing at JM, underscored the project's importance in the broader context of decarbonizing the shipping industry. He expressed that green methanol is emerging as a crucial pathway for reducing carbon emissions in the shipping sector. He mentioned that the project, which employs their cutting-edge technology for green methanol production, builds on their extensive experience and references spanning decades in the field of methanol.

Rhys Tucker, Chief Technology Officer at ABEL Energy, expressed gratitude for the support received from JM and SunGas, emphasizing the belief in bringing the world's best technologies to Tasmania. This collaborative effort reflects a commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to drive sustainability in the region.

Bell Bay Powerfuels, a key player in this initiative, has taken a significant step by signing a term sheet with Hydro Tasmania. This agreement entails the sale of a decommissioned power station, earmarked to serve as the production facility for green hydrogen and green methanol. This strategic move aligns with the broader goals of fostering sustainable practices and utilizing existing infrastructure for renewable energy production.

The ABEL Energy Bell Pay Powerfuels Project emerges as a holistic endeavor, incorporating advanced technologies from SunGas Renewables and JM to drive the production of green methanol and hydrogen. The integration of green hydrogen and methanol synthesis with biomass gasification demonstrates a multifaceted approach to sustainable energy production. The commitment to commence operations in 2027 underscores the project's timeline and signifies a proactive approach to meeting the region's renewable energy targets.