The Kassø e-methanol facility in Aabenraa, Denmark, has officially opened, marking the world’s first large-scale commercial e-methanol production site. Developed through a partnership between European Energy and Mitsui & Co., the facility aims to provide e-methanol to major clients, including Maersk. Located next to the 304 MW Kassø Solar Park, it combines renewable energy generation with carbon capture, producing e-methanol with a significantly reduced carbon footprint—up to 97% less than fossil fuels.
The facility is designed to aid the decarbonization of sectors challenging to electrify, utilizing CO2 captured from biogas plants and waste incineration. With an annual production capacity of 42,000 tonnes, it represents a significant advancement in Power-to-X technologies, according to European Energy CEO Knud Erik Andersen.
Maersk is among the first to contract e-methanol from Kassø, using it to fuel the Laura Maersk, its inaugural methanol-powered containership. Although the facility’s output is relatively small compared to overall demand, it plays a crucial role in transitioning to sustainable fuels. Other companies, such as LEGO and Novo Nordisk, will also use e-methanol to replace fossil-based methanol in their production processes.
