Vopak Acquires 50% Stake in EemsEnergy Terminal in Partnership with Gasunie
Posted 04/12/2023 11:10
Dutch tank storage company Vopak has successfully concluded a key agreement, making it a 50% shareholder in EemsEnergy Terminal, an LNG import terminal located in Eemshaven, the Netherlands. This strategic move is part of Vopak's commitment to the joint development and operation of open-access LNG infrastructure in the Netherlands in collaboration with Gasunie, a prominent Dutch energy network operator.
The agreement, initially announced in April 2023, highlights the shared vision of Vopak and Gasunie to contribute to Europe's energy security by actively participating in the development and operation of vital LNG infrastructure. EemsEnergy Terminal, developed by Gasunie, has been operational since September 15, 2022, functioning as a floating LNG terminal with the capacity to import an additional 8 billion cubic meters per year.
Vopak and Gasunie are actively working to expand the terminal's capacity, aiming for a further increase to 10 billion cubic meters per year. This initiative aligns with Gasunie's strategic goal of reducing dependency on Russian gas, enhancing energy security, and contributing to a diversified and sustainable energy mix.
Moreover, the partners plan to extend the Eemshaven site's capabilities to support the import of green hydrogen, emphasizing their commitment to advancing clean energy solutions. The collaboration leverages Vopak's expertise in tank storage and Gasunie's experience as an energy network operator to create a reliable and accessible LNG import solution.
Hans Coenen, a member of the executive board at Gasunie, expressed satisfaction with Vopak's entry as a co-shareholder in EemsEnergy Terminal, highlighting the long-term partnership between the two companies in facilitating LNG import and terminalling. Coenen emphasized that the collaboration positions them well for future developments and strengthens their commitment to innovative LNG infrastructure.
Dick Richelle, CEO at Vopak, shared his excitement about expanding the successful partnership with Gasunie. This strategic move aligns with Vopak's broader strategy of growth in LNG infrastructure and aligning with new energies. Richelle emphasized the importance of developing and operating reliable, open-access infrastructure as a key component of energy security and the ongoing energy transition.
Vopak and Gasunie, as founders and joint owners of the LNG Gate terminal in Rotterdam since 2011, have a proven track record of successful collaboration in the LNG sector. The completion of this agreement and the continued development of LNG infrastructure reinforce their position as key contributors to Europe's energy landscape, with a combined total regas capacity of 28 billion cubic meters per year once all envisioned projects are realized.