E-hub in the port: companies share electricity on the full power grid

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Shell and Linde are going to share power on their site in Pernis in the port of Rotterdam with an energy hub (e-hub). An e-hub is a collaboration between multiple parties that share electricity locally. In this case, Shell had surplus power capacity, which Linde can use to optimize the operation of its compressors. This is essential because the high-voltage grid in the port of Rotterdam has been at full capacity since 2022.

CO2 capture

Porthos CO₂ transport and storage project

Linde uses the electricity to compress the CO₂ captured from the refinery, so that it can be transported to the Porthos CO₂ transport and storage project. Network operator Stedin helped to establish the e-hub. This collaboration is a concrete example of how industrial parties can strengthen each other in the energy transition: there are opportunities despite the congestion on the power grid.

Exchanging capacity

Reducing the overall pressure on the power grid in the port of Rotterdam requires flexibility on the part of businesses. There are various ways in which companies can be more flexible with the power grid: consuming less electricity during peak times, or generating more power in order to balance supply and demand on the grid. Or, as in this case, exchanging capacity between parties. This will enable Stedin and TenneT, the operator of the high-voltage grid, to guarantee the reliability of the grid and create space for Linde and Shell to implement their plans during the congestion period.

Marcel de Jonge, Project Manager, Lindegas

Collaboration with the Port of Rotterdam Authority

Network operators Stedin and TenneT are collaborating with the Port of Rotterdam Authority, Deltalinqs and the business community to develop a package of measures to prevent the electricity grid in the port from becoming overloaded and to avoid power outages. The aim is also to create some space for customers on the waiting list for grid connections. Meanwhile, the network operators are working hard to expand the port's electricity grid.

Source: Stedin