Tjörn, a municipality in Sweden, is making significant strides towards establishing the world's first carbon-negative port, thanks to an ambitious initiative led by Wallhamn AB in collaboration with Boson Energy SA - is a participant in the first-ever Tech Tour Hydrogen Dialogue. This groundbreaking project aims to establish a local energy production facility that not only produces fossil-free energy but also actively reduces carbon dioxide emissions, paving the way for future-proof energy security and sustainable development.
The directional decision made by Tjörn Municipality is a pivotal step towards enabling the establishment of this cutting-edge facility. Boson Energy's technology plays a crucial role in this project, as they have developed a groundbreaking approach to local energy production using otherwise non-recyclable waste. Through their innovative process, electricity and green methanol are generated, effectively replacing their fossil counterparts in the chemical, plastic, and maritime industries. The energy and fuel produced through this process become carbon-negative, as carbon dioxide is separated and stored in a clean and cost-effective manner.
The collaboration between Wallhamn AB and Boson Energy is set to revolutionize the port's operations. Boson Energy will cater to Wallhamn AB's growing energy and electricity needs, supporting vehicle charging and bolstering the local power grid when required. The solid residual product from the energy conversion process, known as glass slag, will be utilized as environmentally friendly fill material or transformed into a climate-smart insulation material, showcasing a high level of circular resource efficiency.
The ambitious project aligns perfectly with Wallhamn AB's vision of becoming the world's first carbon-negative port. By producing local electricity, the port aims to achieve full electrification of not only its vehicles but also those arriving at the port, eliminating the need for fossil fuels. Moreover, Wallhamn AB plans to use the planned electricity supply to expand electrification at the port, providing shore power for incoming ships and further reducing emissions.
Torbjörn Wedebrand, CEO of Wallhamn AB, expresses his enthusiasm for the project, stating, "This project creates very favourable conditions for our green transition and reliable energy supply - both for our own operations and for our customers. It will be a crucial part of growing our import/export business while significantly reducing carbon emissions. In addition, the various products from Boson Energy's integrated approach offer very interesting opportunities to develop the entire area around the port. For us, this is a flagship project, and many ports around the world are facing similar challenges."
As part of the larger project, Boson Energy has partnered with Ecopromt AB to establish a vegetable cultivation facility near the port. This innovative concept ensures circular and spatially efficient vegetable production without environmental impact. By locating the cultivation facility close to Boson Energy's plant, direct supplies of electricity, carbon dioxide, and cooling will support energy- and climate-efficient cultivation.
Jan Grimbrandt, founder and CEO of Boson Energy SA, emphasizes the significance of the Wallhamn project in showcasing their vision for circular sector coupling. The project aims to demonstrate the autonomous and dynamic potential of Boson Energy's 24/7/365 system for local energy production, phasing out fossil alternatives. This will have a transformative impact on sectors like marine fuels, the chemical industry, fertilizers, and local food production with highly efficient greenhouses. The Wallhamn project is set to become a global model, relevant not only for ports but also for cities and various types of 'islands,' all seeking sustainable energy supply, cost-effectiveness, and a reduced carbon footprint.
The municipality's directional decision signals the beginning of preparations for establishing the facilities, including exploring suitable industrial properties within the ongoing detailed planning process. Work on establishing the intended facilities is expected to commence no earlier than 2025, creating between 150 and 200 new jobs for the municipality.
Martin Johansen, Chairman of the Municipal Executive Board, emphasizes the significance of Wallhamn AB's role as a major employer and existing infrastructure. The project allows Tjörn to proactively embrace new approaches to building local energy security and sustainable job opportunities that are both fossil-free and circular. With the municipality's directional decision, Wallhamn AB and Boson Energy are set to investigate securing the port's energy supply and creating an environment for new circular business opportunities.
The world's first carbon-negative port in Tjörn is an inspiring example of how innovation, collaboration, and sustainable energy solutions can reshape the future of global ports and industries. As the journey towards carbon neutrality gains momentum, Wallhamn AB and Boson Energy are leading the way, setting an example for other ports worldwide to follow suit in their pursuit of a greener and more sustainable future.
Sources: https://bosonenergy.com/press-releases/wallhamn-forsta-koldioxidnegativa-hamnen-i-varlden/
https://www.dagensps.se/cleantech/tjorn-forst-i-varlden-koldioxidnegativ-hamn/
https://www.techtour.com/news/2023/boson.html
