Uniper and thyssenkrupp Uhde Revolutionise Hydrogen with Ammonia Cracker Tech
Essen, Tuesday, 27 May 2025.
Uniper and thyssenkrupp Uhde are partnering to build a large-scale ammonia cracker in Germany, a major leap for hydrogen conversion. This plant could spell a significant shift in green energy.
Breakthrough for Hydrogen Conversion
Imagine a world where ammonia isn’t just a fertiliser but a pivotal part of the green energy revolution. That’s the vision Uniper and thyssenkrupp Uhde are bringing to life with their new industrial-scale ammonia cracker in Germany [2]. Located in Gelsenkirchen-Scholven, this facility is set to process 28 tonnes of ammonia per day, breaking it down into hydrogen and nitrogen [3]. The technology takes advantage of ammonia’s excellent transport capabilities, with the goal of converting it into usable hydrogen for industries like energy, steel, and chemicals [1]. By doing so, they’re essentially paving the way to a hydrogen-powered future.
Building the Future of Green Energy Infrastructure
You don’t just build a bridge to the future—you construct an entire highway. And that’s exactly what’s happening with this project. The demonstration plant will lay the groundwork for a hydrogen import terminal in Wilhelmshaven, Germany [2]. Supported by funding from North Rhine-Westphalia, this initiative is a stepping stone aimed at significantly bolstering Germany’s hydrogen supply chain [3]. What’s creative here is using ammonia instead of pure hydrogen for transport—it simply makes sense given ammonia’s ease of transport over long distances [5]. The implications for energy security and sustainability are enormous.
Synergy of Expertise
Here’s where two giants meet: Uniper’s prestigious position in the energy markets and thyssenkrupp Uhde’s world-leading ammonia technology [6]. Their combined forces ensure that the new cracker plant is optimized for maximum performance, efficiency, and safety [2]. Nadja Håkansson of thyssenkrupp Uhde points out that this partnership isn’t just about building tech; it’s about crafting a sustainable and reliable future [6]. Meanwhile, Uniper’s COO, Holger Kreetz, sees this as a crucial element in diversifying Germany’s energy mix and fulfilling their hydrogen needs [5]. It’s a story of detailed craftsmanship and strategic foresight.
Future is Now
Construction is already underway! The project is aggressively pushing towards a commissioning date by the end of 2026 [1]. Once fully operational, this demonstration plant could be a game changer. Hydrogen could become part of the everyday energy supply chain, reducing reliance on fossil fuels [3]. The collaborative vision here isn’t just optimistic—it’s transformative. By converting imported ammonia into hydrogen, companies aren’t just catching a wave; they’re riding the crest towards a renewable future.