Worley has secured a significant engineering contract to develop North America's first commercial-scale electric ammonia facility powered by innovative solid-oxide electrolyzer technology. The groundbreaking project, located in Victoria, Texas, will produce 300 metric tons of ammonia daily using Danish company Topsoe's advanced SOEC technology, which demonstrates 30% greater energy efficiency compared to conventional electrolyzers. The project has garnered strong support from Senior VP Marc Van Den Boom, who emphasized that community trust will be essential to its success.
Groundbreaking Texas facility sets new standard for clean ammonia production, leveraging advanced electrolyzer technology to boost efficiency and sustainability.
The front-end engineering and design (FEED) study, slated for completion in Q1 2025, will incorporate modular design principles to minimize construction risks and overall project costs. Construction is expected to commence later that year, with the facility becoming operational by 2027. The plant's innovative design accommodates fluctuating renewable energy inputs, enabling it to adapt production levels based on power availability while contributing to local grid stability. The facility will support decarbonization of industry through its clean ammonia production capabilities.
"This project represents a significant milestone in the decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors," explains First Ammonia's spokesperson. "By utilizing SOEC technology at a commercial scale, we're demonstrating the viability of electric ammonia production while supporting the transition to renewable energy integration in chemical manufacturing."
The Victoria facility's strategic location along the Gulf Coast positions it as a potential hub for next-generation ammonia production technology. The project, backed by strong community support, will create numerous jobs during both construction and operational phases while establishing the region as a leader in innovative energy solutions.
The collaboration capitalizes on Worley's extensive experience in Gulf Coast operations and large-scale projects, including their work on Shell's renewable hydrogen project in Europe. This expertise, combined with Topsoe's licensed technology, creates a robust foundation for the facility's success.
The plant's design allows for future expansion, supporting long-term growth in low-carbon energy production while demonstrating the economic viability of more efficient ammonia production methods.
As the first facility to utilize SOEC technology for hydrogen production at commercial scale, this project marks a vital step forward in delivering decarbonized energy solutions, supporting both regional economic growth and global sustainability goals through clean ammonia production.
