Air Liquide Initiates €500 Million Green Hydrogen Plant in Rotterdam
Rotterdam, Friday, 25 July 2025.
Air Liquide starts construction on a green hydrogen facility in Rotterdam, a €500 million project backed by European and Dutch subsidies, marking a key step in reducing carbon emissions.
Driving Green Hydrogen Innovation
Air Liquide, a leading French multinational, has initiated the construction of the ELYgator, a green hydrogen production facility, at Maasvlakte in Rotterdam. This €500 million investment marks a significant development in the Netherlands’ sustainable energy landscape [1]. The ELYgator facility, once operational by the end of 2027, aims to produce approximately 23,000 tons of green hydrogen annually. This output represents a pivotal step in decarbonizing industrial sectors reliant on hydrogen [2].
Strategic Location and Collaborative Efforts
The Maasvlakte area in Rotterdam is becoming a focal point for green hydrogen projects, with companies like Air Liquide and Shell actively participating in evolution. The location, strategically selected for its proximity to major transport and industrial hubs, will play a crucial role in reducing logistical carbon emissions. Collaborations between major energy firms, as well as support from European and Dutch governmental subsidies, underscore the project’s importance [1][3].
Economic and Environmental Impact
Green hydrogen projects like ELYgator are instrumental in bridging the gap between fossil-based and renewable energy sources. The Dutch government has allocated significant subsidies to foster the development of such initiatives, aiming to curtail CO2 emissions through innovative energy solutions. Over €700 million in subsidies will support 11 large-scale electrolysis projects across various sectors in the Netherlands [2][4]. These subsidies are designed to reduce the cost disparity between green and grey hydrogen production, promoting wider adoption in critical industries like chemicals and transportation [4].
The Future of Energy at Maasvlakte
By the time the ELYgator becomes operational in 2027, it will contribute significantly to the Netherlands’ green energy goals. The introduction of such projects furthers the vision of a sustainable future by integrating green hydrogen into existing energy frameworks. With the aim to become less dependent on fossil fuels, the Netherlands is setting a precedent for international efforts in renewable hydrogen technology [1][3][4].