HES International to build CO2 capture terminals in Rotterdam, boosting Dutch industry decarbonisation

HES International, a long‑standing terminal operator, announced plans to develop CO₂ capture and storage terminals at its HES Bulk Terminal in Rotterdam and a second site in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. Business Development Director Otto Waterlander said the facilities will offer a flexible, fast and cost‑effective option for customers, with minimal risk. The company, historically focused on fossil‑fuel handling, is positioning its terminals to accelerate the energy transition.

A PwC report for the Dutch industry outlines pathways to near‑zero emissions by 2040, highlighting blue hydrogen—hydrogen produced from natural gas combined with CO₂ capture—as the most cost‑effective route, accounting for 41 % of the 44 Mt of CO₂ reductions needed across sectors such as refining, chemicals, steel and cement. Additional CO₂ capture and storage could contribute another 21 Mt of reductions. EU ETS reforms may affect the timing of these investments, but the combined focus on blue hydrogen and CCS signals a major push toward industrial decarbonisation in the Netherlands.