China’s First Offshore Hydrogen-Ammonia-Methanol Project Enters Trial Operation Phase
China’s push towards clean energy solutions has reached a new milestone with the launch of the nation’s first integrated offshore hydrogen-ammonia-methanol project in Yantai, Shandong province. This groundbreaking initiative, jointly developed by CHN Energy Hydrogen Energy Technology, CIMC Raffles, and Guoneng Hydrogen Innovation Technology, aims to produce clean fuels for ships while demonstrating the full industrial chain of offshore hydrogen production, storage, transportation, and utilization.
The project has now entered the trial operation phase after the successful completion of construction on March 27. At its core is a state-of-the-art semi-submersible offshore hydrogen production platform standing over 50 meters tall and weighing more than 20,000 tons. Equipped with photovoltaic power generation systems and electrochemical energy storage devices, the platform boasts energy self-sufficiency capabilities.
Within the platform are three hydrogen production units, including direct seawater electrolysis and freshwater electrolysis systems, as well as a desalination module that can produce five tons of freshwater daily for hydrogen generation. The hydrogen produced is then converted into methanol and ammonia to overcome storage and transportation challenges.
By harnessing offshore renewable energy for off-grid hydrogen production, the project transforms green hydrogen into ammonia and methanol, serving as both clean marine fuels and essential industrial raw materials. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainable energy solutions but also addresses the growing demand for cleaner alternative fuels in the shipping industry.
Construction of the project commenced in September 2024 and received design compliance approval from the China Classification Society (CCS) in January 2025. Its successful completion signifies a significant step towards establishing technical standards and regulatory frameworks for China’s offshore hydrogen production sector, paving the way for future developments in clean energy technology.