First offshore hydrogen-ammonia-methanol platform begins trial operation in China

China Energy Investment Corporation has announced that the first offshore platform for producing green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol has been built in Yantai, China, and is about to start its trial operation. This joint project by China Energy, CIMC Raffles, and Guoneng Hydrogen Innovation Technology is China’s initial demonstration project for offshore hydrogen production, storage, and transportation. It is also being hailed as the world’s first offshore platform capable of producing hydrogen, methanol, and ammonia. The semi-submersible platform, towering over 50 meters and weighing more than 20,000 tons, is equipped with solar power systems and energy storage devices for self-sufficiency. Its three hydrogen production units, including seawater and freshwater electrolysis systems, along with a desalination module, can generate freshwater for hydrogen production and convert hydrogen into methanol and ammonia. These products will serve as clean marine fuels and essential industrial materials. The project, started in September 2024, passed the China Classification Society’s design review in January 2025, setting new standards for China’s offshore hydrogen production sector.