Blue hydrogen demonstration planned

Aramco and Topsoe collaborate to demonstrate the eREACT technology, seen here, for low-carbon hydrogen production. (Image:Topsoe)

Energy and chemicals company Topsoe and Aramco plan to demonstrate technology for the production of low-carbon, or blue, hydrogen.

Topsoe said its eREACT technology is designed for the production of low-carbon hydrogen from natural gas and has the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions. 

As part of the agreement, Aramco and Topsoe will build a demonstration plant at the Shaybah Natural Gas Liquids recovery plant in Saudi Arabia. In the project, renewable electricity will be used for electrified steam reforming of natural gas to produce low-carbon hydrogen, with the resulting CO2 being sequestered.

“The cornerstone of this collaboration is Topsoe’s eREACT, which is a groundbreaking technology platform producing low-carbon fuels and chemicals while eliminating flue gas emissions,” said Elena Scaltritti, Chief Commercial Officer at Topsoe. “This marks a crucial step in the transition to a net-zero future, and we couldn’t be more excited to be at the forefront of this transformative change. We look forward to working with Aramco on this exciting project.”

eREACT incorporates an electrified reactor design, which is able to convert a variety of feedstocks into low-carbon hydrogen or other chemicals and fuels. The eREACT technology opens up new production routes combining renewable electricity and natural gas while eliminating flue gas emissions, the company said. Due to its versatility, the technology has the potential to play a significant role in the global transition to a low-carbon economy.