MAIRE, Eni, and Iren Ambiente have initiated the authorization process for the construction of a circular methanol and hydrogen production plant at Eni’s Sannazzaro de’ Burgondi refinery in Pavia, Italy. This innovative project aims to transform non-recyclable waste into synthesis gas (syngas), which will then be converted into sustainable fuels and chemicals. The plant will leverage Nextchem’s proprietary NX CircularTM technology, a division of MAIRE, to support this process.
Production and Capacity of the Plant
Once operational, the plant is expected to process approximately 200,000 tons of non-recyclable waste per year, supplied by Iren’s waste management division, Iren Ambiente. This syngas will then be converted to produce up to 110,000 tons of circular methanol annually. This methanol offers an innovative alternative for decarbonising the maritime sector. The plant will also produce up to 1,500 tons per year of circular hydrogen, which can either be used in refinery processes to reduce CO2 emissions or for sustainable mobility in road and rail transport.
Optimizing Existing Infrastructure
The project will make use of the existing infrastructure at Eni’s refinery, optimising both costs and the technical expertise available at the Sannazzaro site. Additionally, the plant will recover up to 33,000 tons of inert granulate annually, which can be used in the cement industry, further contributing to decarbonisation efforts in that sector.
Compliance with European Standards and Environmental Impact
The production of circular methanol will meet the criteria set out in the European Union Renewable Energy Directive, particularly regarding Recycled Carbon Fuels (RCF). According to Fabio Fritelli, Managing Director of Nextchem, this project presents a unique opportunity to combine environmental sustainability with economic growth. He also highlighted that Italian ports will be among the first to benefit from this environmentally friendly fuel, meeting international regulatory requirements.
