Exolum Pioneers Commercial Green Hydrogen Transport Using Existing Oil Infrastructure

In a groundbreaking initiative, Exolum has launched the world's first project to transport and store green hydrogen at a commercial scale using its existing oil infrastructure. This innovative effort, based in Immingham, the UK’s largest freight port, employs Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC) to safely and efficiently manage hydrogen in liquid form.

What Are Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC)?

LOHCs are organic compounds capable of absorbing and releasing hydrogen through chemical reactions, making them a safe and efficient medium for hydrogen transport and storage. Exolum, a global leader in liquid logistics, leverages its extensive UK fuel pipeline and storage network for this revolutionary project. The initiative aligns with Exolum’s strategy to adapt its infrastructure for the evolving hydrogen economy while reducing the need for costly new facilities.

How This Project Will Transform Hydrogen Logistics?

The trial involves the transport of 400 cubic meters of LOHC containing 20 tonnes of hydrogen through a 1.5 km pipeline connecting Exolum’s facilities at Immingham East and West. The hydrogen transported is equivalent to fueling a hydrogen-powered car for 2 million kilometers. Laboratory tests will verify the quality retention of LOHC during transport.

According to Ignacio Casajús, Global Strategy & Growth Lead at Exolum, “Our pioneering project offers a realistic, safe, and cost-effective formula for distributing green hydrogen, leveraging one of the world’s most efficient logistics networks. This will decisively support economic decarbonization and diversify energy alternatives.”

Supporting the UK’s Clean Power Mission

Funded with £505,000 from Innovate UK, the project contributes to the UK’s Clean Power Mission 2030 goals. Exolum’s UK facilities could distribute up to 4.6 TWh of hydrogen annually, meeting 30% of the projected national demand by 2030.

Additionally, Exolum is developing a hydrogen production plant and refueling station in the Tees Valley, featuring a water electrolyzer powered by renewable energy. This project aligns with other innovative initiatives like the Regenera and GreenH2Pipes consortia, further promoting renewable hydrogen technologies.

Expanding Green Hydrogen Infrastructure Across Europe

Beyond the UK, Exolum is driving hydrogen advancements in Spain. It recently completed a plant in Madrid that integrates green hydrogen production and dispensing for heavy transport vehicles, enhancing decarbonization efforts in road logistics.

A Decisive Step Toward a Sustainable Future

By repurposing its existing oil infrastructure, Exolum demonstrates how innovative approaches can accelerate the transition to a hydrogen-based energy system. This project not only showcases the potential of LOHC technology but also sets a precedent for sustainable energy practices worldwide.