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Plans in Full Swing for France’s First Low-carbon Ammonia Terminal.
Part of the Fos Tonkin liquified natural gas (LNG) terminal, west of Marseille in the south of France, is being repurposed by client Elengy (elengy.com) in the name of the energy transition. A former LNG tank will be replaced by a 30,000 m³ ammonia tank. The new terminal aims to import, store and distribute 200 kilotons per year of low carbon ammonia (NH3), with big implications for decarbonization in the region.
Tractebel and partners complete pre-FEED studies
Tractebel conducted the preliminary Front-End Engineering Design (pre-FEED) studies of the ammonia terminal, with the support of Tractebel company IMDC for the marine and maritime engineering and Proton Ventures for the ammonia process. The pre-FEED studies began in April 2024 and were completed by the end of that year.
Our mandate included:
• Review of existing design;
• Setting of design bases;
• Development of engineering documents up to pre-FEED level:
• Process design, including concept review and optimization;
• Safety and permitting;
• Layout and piping;
• Mechanical;
• Civil works and structures;
• Maritime works;
• Instrumentation and control;
• Electrical;
• Definition of preliminary contracting strategy pre-consultation on main packages;
• Estimation of Pre-FEED CAPEX (class 3 +/-30%);
• Realization of planning (EPC level 2);
• Risk identification;
• Preparation of FEED tender documents.
The pre-FEED studies facilitated the consolidation of a strong design for the ammonia terminal installations, leveraging expertise, feedback from the operations of existing terminals, and initial discussions with suppliers. By combining their complementary expertise, Tractebel and Proton Ventures enhanced the skills of Elengy staff in ammonia molecule handling, assisted in outlining the cost, planning, and risk management for this strategic project, and established a clear definition of the project's next steps based on robust design principles.
Medhyterra project a reference for decarbonization
Once complete, this ammonia import terminal will distribute the low-carbon ammonia by train, truck, and by pipeline to adjacent industrial sites for hydrogen (H2) production. Export by ship (bunkering) is also planned.
Low-carbon ammonia import at Fos-sur-Mer can directly contribute to the decarbonization of industries in the southern region of France and beyond, impacting sectors such as agriculture, chemical, and automotive. When converted into low-carbon hydrogen, it can also significantly aid in reducing emissions in the refining, metallurgy, and heavy mobility sectors. Therefore, the development of this terminal will be a powerful catalyst in supporting the region’s industrial decarbonization and energy transition goals.
“Our team is proud that Elengy has chosen Tractebel for our expertise to support it on the groundbreaking NH3 import project Medhyterra,” says Sébastien Jacquet, Unit Director of Gas-to-X, Tractebel in France. “Together with Elengy, our mission is to contribute to decarbonization through this innovative project. This initiative aligns perfectly with Tractebel's mission and vision of designing a carbon-neutral future.”
About Tractebel
Tractebel (tractebel-engie.be) is a global engineering company delivering game-changing solutions for a carbon-neutral future. Insights gathered during our more than 150 years of experience in energy, water, infrastructures and nuclear projects combined with local expertise allow us to tackle complex future-oriented projects. By connecting strategy, design, engineering and project management, our community of imaginative experts helps companies and public authorities create positive impact towards a sustainable world, where people, planet and profit collectively thrive. With offices in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and North and Latin America, the company registered a turnover of 579 million euros in 2021. Tractebel is part of the ENGIE Group, a global reference in low-carbon energy and services.
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