Wedoany.com Report-May 30, Thyssenkrupp Uhde GmbH of Dortmund, Germany, and Uniper SE of Düsseldorf, Germany, have formed a strategic partnership to advance large-scale ammonia cracking technology for hydrogen production. The collaboration focuses on building a demonstration plant at Uniper’s Gelsenkirchen-Scholven site, with a capacity to process 28 tons of ammonia daily, splitting it into hydrogen and nitrogen. This plant, one of the first globally, will lay the groundwork for a planned hydrogen import terminal in Wilhelmshaven, Germany, where the technology will be scaled up industrially.

Uniper’s Gelsenkirchen-Scholven site in Germany

The partnership aims to convert imported ammonia into hydrogen for industries like energy, steel, and chemicals, supporting sustainable industrial transformation. Ammonia’s high energy density and established global transport infrastructure make it an efficient hydrogen carrier, enabling cost-effective supply from international production sites. Holger Kreetz, Uniper’s COO, stated: “Uniper is actively committed to establishing hydrogen as an important component of the future energy mix that combines security and sustainability.” Nadja Håkansson, CEO of thyssenkrupp Uhde, added: “Uniper’s position as a leader in the energy markets and experienced asset operator, combined with our proven track record in ammonia technology, forms a strong foundation for success.”

Mona Neubaur, North Rhine-Westphalia’s Minister for Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Protection, and Energy, said: “Hydrogen is one of the key technologies for the future viability of our industry in North Rhine-Westphalia.” The project, backed by state funding and significant contributions from both companies, will develop innovative components at the Scholven site. Construction has begun, with commissioning expected by the end of 2026, following all necessary approvals. Data from the demonstration plant will optimize the technology for a future commercial-scale facility.

The ammonia cracker supports global hydrogen infrastructure by leveraging existing ammonia trade networks, converting low-carbon hydrogen into ammonia at production sites and cracking it at destinations for clean use. This enhances energy security and industrial decarbonization in Germany, focusing on domestic industrial consumption without affecting trade dynamics.