Ammonia Cracking for Hydrogen Imports
Uniper, in cooperation with thyssenkrupp Uhde, is developing an ammonia cracking plant at the Gelsenkirchen-Scholven site. The demonstration plant is designed to process up to 28 tonnes of ammonia per day, equivalent to around 4 tonnes of hydrogen. The project serves as a proof of concept for a large-scale plant planned in Wilhelmshaven and is intended to generate key insights into performance parameters, flexibility, and economic viability. Commissioning is scheduled for the end of 2026. The project is funded by the Ministry of Economic Affairs, Industry, Climate Action and Energy of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia (MWIKE).
In addition, the partnership between Uniper and thyssenkrupp Uhde aims to further develop ammonia splitting for the international hydrogen trade on an industrial scale. Ammonia can serve as a carrier for hydrogen; international infrastructure for its transport and storage already exists. The reconversion to hydrogen at the import site is therefore a key component of such import chains.
The demonstration plant in Gelsenkirchen-Scholven is intended to provide insights for future large-scale commercial application, particularly at the planned hydrogen import terminal in Wilhelmshaven. The project can thus open up additional import opportunities for hydrogen and support the supply of industrial customers. Its contribution to emissions reduction depends in particular on the production of ammonia as well as the energy required for transport and splitting.