The project partners - including Uniper, ABB Sweden, the Port of Luleå, and Luleå Energi - will work on producing and marketing fossil-free hydrogen to transport and industrial customers as an alternative for fuel, electricity, and heat generation.

The partners have applied to the Swedish Energy Agency to become an Important Project of Common European Interest (IPCEI) candidate, an EU instrument launched in 2021 to kick-start the hydrogen economy.

Once up & running, the Botnia Link H2 hub could reduce CO2 emissions in Sweden by up to 235kt/year.

"Tackling climate change is very urgent, especially given the sensitivity of our home waters in the Baltic Sea. Along with our customers and partners, we have a responsibility to do what we can to turn the tide. Industrial partnerships like Botnia Link H2 are key to achieving real change. We very much look forward to participating in developing a much-needed source of fossil-free marine fuel," Mikki Koskinen, ESL Shipping's Managing Director, underlined.

His company carries some 5.5mt/year to and from the Port of Luleå. ESL Shipping plans to offer 100% fossil-free sea shipping solutions in the future.

"We have still only scratched the surface when it comes to hydrogen's possibilities and potential to drive sustainability in industry and transport. With an almost fossil-free energy system, Sweden is well-positioned for large-scale hydrogen production. Botnia Link H2 is a great example of that potential," Johan Svenningsson, CEO of Uniper Sweden, also commented.

Vibeke Gyllenram, Head of Sales, Energy Industries, at ABB Sweden, added, "Hydrogen is an excellent example of how we can apply new technology to achieve a more sustainable future. Botnia Link H2 allows us to push the technical boundaries while also making a real difference."

Photo: ESL Shipping