Renco: Pioneering the Development of Hydrogen Valleys
Hydrogen energy holds transformative potential for the industrial sector today. As a clean fuel, hydrogen burns with oxygen to produce only water vapor, making it a powerful tool for reducing air pollution associated with energy production. Its adoption promises substantial environmental benefits by minimising harmful emissions.
Falconara Marittima hydrogen project
Renco is helping to support the Marche region in establishing three 'Hydrogen Valleys' in the Falconara Marittima municipality, across three decommissioned industrial areas designated for green hydrogen production from renewable sources, supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR).
The three green hydrogen production sites will be situated in decommissioned industrial areas strategically distributed across the region:
- Hydrogen Valley - North Marche (Energie Techfem) in the Bellocchi di Fano industrial area (PU),
- Hydrogen Valley - Central Marche (RTI Renco) in the former Montedison industrial area in Falconara Marittima (AN)
- Hydrogen Valley - South Marche (Esdigis 4U) in the former CPM industrial area in Offida (AP).
On June 24, 2024 a press conference was held at the Marche Region headquarters, attended by regional energy officials, the transport councillor, and Renco representatives, including Giovanni Gasparini, President of Renco, and Fabrizio Fedi, Group Commercial Director. The conference included a presentation of the plant’s design and confirmation of public funding: 12.9 million euros for the production plant and 3.5 million euros for the filling station.
The project is supported by resources allocated by the latest decrees from the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE) and the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF). The additional contributions from these institutions will bring the total available funds for the project to 36.2 million euros, up from the initial 13.5 million already granted following the issuance of the March 2023 call for tenders.
Scheduled for completion by June 2026, the project aims to produce 200 tons of hydrogen each year to power public transport vehicles.
Hydrogen is increasingly being recognised as a powerful clean energy technology that reduces air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Hydrogen's ability to store energy from renewable sources makes it a valuable option for balancing supply and demand in the energy sector. It can be applied across various sectors and will gradually decrease our dependence on fossil fuels, while simultaneously fostering economic opportunities.
Renco is thrilled to be involved in the development of Hydrogen Valleys in Italy, which are increasingly being adopted across European countries.