ExxonMobil is set to construct a pioneering pilot facility at the Botlek site in Rotterdam, utilizing advanced carbonate fuel cell technology. This innovative technology not only captures CO2 emissions from industrial sources before release but also generates valuable by-products, including low carbon power, heat, and hydrogen. The captured CO2 will be transported via the Porthos infrastructure and stored in depleted gas fields beneath the North Sea.
The primary objective of the pilot plant is to gather crucial data on the performance and applicability of carbonate fuel cell (CFC) technology, developed in collaboration with FuelCell Energy. Its modular design positions it for potential widespread implementation, marking the first instance of testing this technology for CO2 capture in an industrial setting. The pilot initiative aims to address potential technical challenges in a commercial environment and enhance understanding of the installation and operational costs associated with a CFC plant for CO2 capture.
Image source: https://www.portofrotterdam.com/en/news-and-press-releases/exxonmobil-to-build-pilot-plant-with-fuelcell-energy-for-co2-capture