HIF Global becomes Methanol Institute’s newest member

December 6, 2024, by Aida Čučuk

Trade association Methanol Institute (MI) has welcomed U.S.-based e-fuels company HIF Global as its newest member.

As disclosed, HIF Global’s approach combines renewable energy with technology to produce green hydrogen through electrolysis and capture CO2 from atmospheric, biogenic and industrial sources. These components are then synthesized to create e-fuels, including e-methanol for ships.

The company is involved in projects in the U.S., Chile, Australia, Uruguay and Brazil. Its commercial-scale project, the HIF Matagorda e-fuels facility in Texas, U.S., is designed to produce 1.4 million metric tons of e-methanol annually once fully operational.

As part of MI’s membership, HIF Global is expected to collaborate with other industry leaders, policymakers and stakeholders to promote the adoption of methanol-based solutions and e-fuels in the transition to a low-carbon future.

Greg Dolan, CEO of Methanol Institute, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome HIF Global to the Methanol Institute. HIF Global’s work in e-Fuels, particularly e-Methanol, is a crucial contribution to the energy transition. Their innovative approach underscores methanol’s potential as a key solution for decarbonizing transportation and industry, and we look forward to collaborating to accelerate this transformation.”

Cesar Norton, President and CEO of HIF Global, stated: “e-Fuels are essential to achieving a sustainable future. We applaud the Methanol Institute for their leadership in methanol markets and join them to drive forward the vision to expand e-Methanol based e-Fuels that support our global circular economy. Together we will advance the energy transition by pioneering e-Methanol solutions that utilize existing infrastructure to inspire innovation and reduce costs.’’

To note, Methanol Institute welcomed several new members in 2024. Furthermore, together with ECSA, FuelsEurope, eFuel Alliance, EWAB and HydrogenEurope, it established a new Clean Maritime Fuels Platform, an industry initiative aiming to enhance communication between the shipping sector and fuel producers.

In addition, the association was granted consultative status by the International Maritime Organization (IMO), allowing it to contribute its expertise to the development of shipping regulations.