© City of Nokia
Norwegian company Freija has begun engineering and design work for a green hydrogen-based e-methane plant in Nokia, Tampere region, Finland. The facility will cover 150,000 square meters and is expected to meet the growing demand for renewable fuels driven by EU regulations.
Phased Development and Carbon Reduction
The project will be developed in three phases, with each phase producing 58,000 tonnes of e-methane annually. This renewable fuel, made from green hydrogen and biogenic CO₂, replaces fossil fuels in transport and shipping. When completed, the plant will cut carbon emissions by 200,000 tonnes per year. The final investment decision is planned for 2026, and production will start in 2029.
Strategic Location
Kristian Hauglum, Freija’s CEO, emphasized the advantages of the Tampere region. “The area offers access to renewable energy, biogenic CO₂, export ports, and the national gas grid,” he said. “Finland’s clean energy goals and skilled workforce make it an ideal location for this project.”
Local and Environmental Benefits
Freija’s plant will also provide excess heat for the Tampere district heating system. This will deliver environmental and economic benefits to the local community.
Meeting Rising Demand for Clean Fuels
Demand for clean fuels such as e-methane is increasing as transport companies aim to meet stricter EU emission rules. Freija has already signed agreements for most of the output from the first phase. Talks are underway for additional sales volumes.
Innovative Plant Design
The plant design uses modular systems and integrated electrolyser technology to lower costs. It can adjust operations to changes in renewable energy production. “Our design is cost-efficient and flexible,” said COO Reidar Strande. “With our experienced team, we are well-prepared to deliver this project.”
Supporting Europe’s Transition
The initiative will create local jobs and attract significant investment to the Tampere region. It will also help reduce Europe’s reliance on fossil fuels. e-Methane is ready to be injected into existing gas infrastructure, making it a practical alternative for heavy transport and shipping.
