By: Mj Toledo
The race to achieve net zero emissions in Europe by 2050 has spurred new industrial developments, particularly in clean energy solutions. As of 2022, Europe had reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 32.5% compared to 1990 levels, surpassing its 2020 target of a 20% reduction. However, emissions cuts must accelerate considerably to meet the 2030 target of a 55% reduction.
Compagnie Maritime Monegasque Zero Emission (CMMZE), a producer and supplier of green hydrogen at scale, has become a player in the green hydrogen sector as it helps the European Union (EU) intensify its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. CMMZE’s technologies and ambitious production targets align with and support the region’s goal for a carbon neutral future.
What Is CMMZE?
Founded by Aldo Labia, who boasts over four decades of experience in the shipping and energy industries, CMMZE is a fully integrated hydrogen production, storage, and transportation company. The company was established to pursue the development of green hydrogen projects by using electrolyzers powered by renewable energy sources to split water and produce clean hydrogen.
“Our main objective is to deliver substantial quantities of green hydrogen to Europe, contributing to the Europeropean 2050 net zero target and empowering development ambitions in North Africa,” its founder shares.
With operations spanning Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Morocco, CMMZE is positioned to harness the region’s vast renewable energy potential and provide a renewable alternative to fossil fuels.
Green Hydrogen Production Capacity and Export Plans to Europe
CMMZE has set ambitious production targets across its operational sites. Tunisia plans to produce 60 kilotons of green hydrogen daily in the initial phase, with operations centered at the port of Zarzis. Meanwhile, the United Arab Emirates and Morocco projects aim to produce 60 kilotons daily in Khalifa and Nador West Med ports.
The company’s export plans to Europe are equally impressive. It aims to deliver 180 kilotons (kt) per year of green hydrogen to these markets, contributing substantially to the continent’s goal of importing 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen by 2030.
Integrating North African Renewable Resources into Europe’s Clean Energy Mix
The energy provider’s projects take advantage of North Africa’s exceptional renewable energy potential. Tunisia, for instance, boasts solar and wind resources, with the southern region presenting photovoltaic capacity factors exceeding 21% and wind farm capacity factors above 38%.
On the other hand, Morocco’s solar and wind technical potential is estimated at 49,000 Terawatt hours (TWh) per year and 11,500 TWh per year, respectively. The United Arab Emirates, known for its massive efforts in renewable energy, also offers solar power at highly competitive rates.
CMMZE is producing green hydrogen and facilitating the integration of North African clean energy into Europe’s energy mix by tapping into these renewable resources. This creates a symbiotic relationship between the two regions, inspiring energy security and supporting sustainable development on both sides of the Mediterranean.
Technological Developments in Hydrogen Production and Transportation
The company employs advanced alkaline electrolysis technology, using a potassium hydroxide (KOH) solution to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. This process is powered entirely by renewable energy sources, resulting in zero carbon emissions during production.
It is developing infrastructure that includes compression facilities, storage solutions, and specialized shipping methods. The company plans to use a combination of pipelines and maritime transport to deliver green hydrogen to European markets efficiently.
These technological developments are needed to overcome the challenges associated with long-distance hydrogen transportation and storage, making its cross-border projects viable and cost-effective.
Economic and Environmental Impact of CMMZE’s Cross-Border Hydrogen Projects
The economic impact of CMMZE’s projects cannot be denied. With total capital expenditures (CAPEX) of €1,657 million across its three main projects, it drives significant investment in green energy infrastructure. These projects are expected to create numerous jobs, directly and indirectly, contributing to economic growth in North Africa.
Environmentally, its green hydrogen production is also set to significantly impact carbon emission reduction. By 2050, the company’s Tunisian operations will avoid 19,000 kt of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions annually.
Aligning With Europe’s Hydrogen Policies and 2050 Climate Goals
The EU has set a target of producing 10 million tonnes of domestic renewable hydrogen and importing an additional 10 million tonnes by 2030. In line with this, CMMZE’s export plans directly contribute to meeting this import target. Furthermore, Europe aims to have 40 Gigawatt (GW) of electrolyzer capacity by 2030, a goal that CMMZE’s projects support through its substantial production capacities and energy transition support.
The company’s focus on green hydrogen production using renewable energy sources also actualizes the EU’s plan to decarbonize hard-to-abate sectors. The energy solutions provider supports Europe’s broader efforts to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 by providing a clean alternative to fossil fuels in industries such as steel production, chemicals, and heavy transport.
Truly, CMMZE’s role in achieving the EU’s 2050 net zero target is multifaceted and undeniable. Its impact on the region’s journey to net zero emissions is set to grow even further, marking a milestone in the global energy transition.
Published by: Holy Minoza
