CRI methanol plant in Iceland
Decarbonizing methanol production through renewable hydrogen
Methanol is gaining prominence as a key player in the transition to a more sustainable future , particularly in sectors such as shipping , chemicals , and aviation , with the latter showing promise as an end use via the methanol-to-jet route . This synthetic compound is classified as an RFNBO ( Renewable Fuel of Non-Biological Origin ) when produced using hydrogen generated from renewable electricity and carbon dioxide captured from various sources . In this article , we will address the most relevant parameters of e-methanol plants and their coupling with renewable hydrogen production .
By Gabriel Padín González , Brais Armiño Franco , and Javier Pollos Ezquerra , AtlantHy
The relevance of methanol
Methanol ( CH 3
OH ) is one of the most essential chemical compounds and , alongside ethylene , propylene , and ammonia , is among the four most-produced chemicals globally . It is a colorless , water-soluble liquid under ambient conditions ( 20 ° C , 1 bar ), which makes it easier to handle and transport than other alternatives .¹
Over the last decade , global demand for methanol nearly doubled , reaching
30 Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 20 | February 2025