Development of Europe’s first industrial ammonia plant based on hydrogen and renewable energy.
GAIA will use cutting-edge technologies to produce renewable ammonia and nitrogen, such as a Haber-Bosch process (ammonia synthesis) and air separation units, which will be adapted to the flexible profile of renewable hydrogen generation.
In addition, it will feature a 12 MW solid oxide electrolyser cell (SOEC) that will produce renewable hydrogen by harnessing waste heat from the ammonia synthesis unit.
The plant, located in Asturias (Spain), will produce around 180,000 tonnes of renewable ammonia per year, which will be used for:
- The production of low-carbon fertilisers.
- A possible use as marine fuel.
In terms of sustainability, a relative reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of close to 100% is expected compared to the reference scenario (in which the ammonia used in fertilisers is of fossil origin).
- Around 2.8 million tonnes of CO2 will be avoided in the first ten years of operation.
- This will be a pioneering project in advancing renewable ammonia production, with high potential for scalability and operational flexibility.
GAIA will also incorporate variable operating modes into the Haber-Bosch system and contribute to environmental sustainability through:
- The integration of SOEC technology.
- A hygroscopic cycle cooling system (HCT).
- The use of reclaimed water.
This facility will demonstrate sustainable practices in the production of renewable ammonia and contribute to the decarbonisation of fertiliser production.
The project is aligned with the objectives of the European Green Deal. The production of renewable ammonia reduces Europe’s GHG emissions and improves the use of renewable energy in industry. By being produced locally, renewable ammonia will also strengthen European energy autonomy, reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels and improving energy security.
In line with the principles of the circular economy and sustainable transition, GAIA will contribute to ensure food security by decarbonising fertiliser production and contribute to the development of a competitive European market for renewable ammonia.
It will also boost regional economic growth by creating skilled local employment and strengthening social cohesion. The project has been designed taking into account the entire value chain and its potential for scalability and replicability. It will demonstrate the commercial viability of the technology, setting a precedent for sustainable practices in renewable ammonia production. The implementation of GAIA will provide valuable information to support wider adoption, as well as for other ammonia producers interested in decarbonising their operations and improving the resilience of the agricultural sector.
Coordinator: Fertiberia
Funded by the European Union. However, the opinions and views expressed are solely those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or the European Climate, Infrastructure and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA). Neither the European Union nor the awarding authority can be held responsible for them.
