Veidekke, a leading Norwegian construction company, has partnered with Norwegian Hydrogen to supply green hydrogen to its newly converted asphalt production plant in Ålesund. The plant, which opened on September 4, 2024, will use green hydrogen produced in Hellesylt as an energy source for the heating process in asphalt production. This process is a crucial component in the road construction industry.
Norwegian Hydrogen’s Role in Sustainable Asphalt Production
Earlier this year, Norwegian Hydrogen provided Veidekke’s asphalt plant in Kristiansund with low-carbon fuel. This made it the world’s first factory capable of sustainable asphalt production. With the opening of the Ålesund plant, Veidekke continues to demonstrate its commitment to reducing its carbon footprint in the construction industry.
Martin Holmqvist, Director of Asphalt at Veidekke Infrastructure, expressed his hope for future collaboration with Norwegian Hydrogen. He stated, “Norwegian Hydrogen is a player that not only talks but actually delivers and produces. This makes them an important partner for us.”
The Environmental Impact of Green Hydrogen in Asphalt Production
- Traditional asphalt production in Norway relies on high thermal energy from sources like natural gas, propane, diesel, and biodiesel, resulting in approximately 400,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.
- By using green hydrogen as an alternative energy source, Veidekke aims to:
- Significantly reduce its carbon emissions
- Contribute to a more sustainable construction industry
- Simen Skaare Eriksen, Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) at Norwegian Hydrogen, emphasized the potential for green hydrogen in various industries, stating, “There are huge climate benefits to be gained by using green hydrogen within several industry segments.”
Norwegian Hydrogen’s Hellesylt Plant
Norwegian Hydrogen’s Hellesylt plant, which delivered its first molecules of green hydrogen in June 2024, is now in its final commissioning and testing phase. The 1.3 tonne-per-day hydrogen hub will not only supply hydrogen to Veidekke’s asphalt plants but also to EV charging company Cyan Energy and maritime developer Skulebas.
As the demand for sustainable solutions in the construction industry grows, partnerships like the one between Veidekke and Norwegian Hydrogen demonstrate the potential for green hydrogen. It plays a significant role in reducing carbon emissions and promoting a more environmentally friendly future.
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