Topsoe will supply its SynCOR™ technology for Sandpiper’s Texas blue methanol plant, advancing large-scale low-carbon methanol production and decarbonization.
Topsoe, a global leader in decarbonization technologies and energy transition solutions, has been chosen by Sandpiper Chemicals LLC as the technology provider for its upcoming blue methanol plant in Texas City, Texas. This strategic collaboration marks a significant milestone in advancing low-carbon fuel production in the United States.
As part of the agreement, Topsoe will license its proprietary SynCOR™ technology, which—when integrated with carbon capture and storage (CCS)—enables the large-scale production of blue methanol. Once operational, the Texas facility is expected to produce 3,000 metric tons per day (MTPD) of blue methanol, positioning it among the largest such projects globally.
The demand for methanol continues to grow as industries seek sustainable energy alternatives. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global methanol consumption could rise to between 120 and 150 million tons annually by 2030. While methanol has traditionally served as a vital feedstock in the chemical industry, it is now gaining prominence as a cleaner marine fuel option. The maritime sector, in particular, is increasingly adopting methanol to cut emissions and meet tightening environmental regulations.
Henrik Rasmussen, Managing Director of Topsoe Americas, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Blue methanol offers a proven pathway for sectors such as maritime shipping to reduce carbon emissions quickly. By combining SynCOR™ technology with CCS, producers can achieve a cost-effective, scalable, and lower-carbon method for methanol production. Our partnership with Energy Allied International spans nearly a decade, and we are delighted that they have selected our technology for their first blue methanol project.”
Rod J. Ragan, CEO of Sandpiper Chemicals, echoed the sentiment, highlighting the long-standing relationship between the two companies. “Our collaboration with Topsoe has been successful across several global initiatives. Given this history, we’re confident in their expertise as our technology provider once again. The project’s prime location on the U.S. Gulf Coast gives us a competitive advantage to efficiently serve both domestic and international markets,” Ragan said.
Blue methanol plays an essential role in the energy transition by significantly lowering carbon emissions compared to conventional “grey” methanol. It is produced by integrating carbon capture technology into methanol synthesis, allowing for the sequestration of CO2 that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. While methanol used as a fuel will eventually emit some CO2 upon combustion, blue methanol still provides a substantial reduction in lifecycle carbon intensity, making it a valuable transitional fuel in the move toward net-zero energy systems.
