NEXTCHEM and Transition Industries Sign Groundbreaking Methanol Production License Agreement in Mexico

NEXTCHEM and Transition Industries Partner for Sustainable Methanol Production

In a significant development for sustainable energy, NEXTCHEM, a subsidiary of MAIRE S.p.A., has entered into a licensing agreement with Transition Industries for the construction of a cutting-edge methanol production facility in Mexico. The plant, situated near Los Mochis in Sinaloa, is set to have an astounding production capacity of 2.1 million tons per year, while boasting extremely low CO2 emissions. This ambitious project will utilize NEXTCHEM's proprietary NX AdWinMethanol® Zero technology, which integrates advanced Autothermal Reforming (ATR) processes to limit greenhouse gas emissions significantly.

The Pacifico Mexinol plant, as it will be known, is being developed in collaboration with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), part of the World Bank Group, signaling a robust investment in sustainable technology. Transition Industries, headquartered in Houston, Texas, specializes in large-scale facilities for methanol and hydrogen with remarkably low CO2 outputs. With this facility, Mexico will not only enhance its methanol production capabilities but also lead the charge in reducing carbon emissions in the chemical industry.

The project is estimated to be valued at around €250 million, encompassing essential components such as basic engineering services, the procurement of innovative equipment, and technical support for the plant's commissioning and operation. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to leveraging advanced technologies that promote sustainability.

The NX AdWinMethanol® Zero technology, developed by NEXTCHEM’s subsidiary GasConTec, represents a breakthrough in the field of chemical production. By uniting ATR with a methanol synthesis and CO2 capture technology, the process aims to convert sequestered CO2 and green hydrogen into methanol, effectively slashing emissions to near-zero levels. By 2028, when the facility is expected to commence operations, it will stand as the world's largest standalone production unit for low CO2 emission methanol.

Methanol produced under these new processes will offer crucial support in decarbonizing various sectors that currently struggle with achieving CO2 neutrality. Products manufactured with this sustainably sourced methanol will greatly contribute to emissions reductions across various industries, including plastics, automotive components, and construction materials.

Alessandro Bernini, Chief Executive Officer of MAIRE, remarked, "We are honored to support this strategic project with NEXTCHEM’s most advanced technologies for low CO2 energy carriers. This achievement confirms our pivotal role in the energy transition and our ability to deliver the most innovative, market-ready solutions that empower our clients to take a leading role in producing clean chemical products."

In a similar vein, Rommel Gallo, CEO of Transition Industries, expressed excitement about the partnership, stating, "We are thrilled to collaborate with NEXTCHEM and implement cutting-edge technologies for the world’s largest low CO2 emission methanol plant. We look forward to working together to accelerate the decarbonization of the global methanol and chemical sectors."

The Pacifico Mexinol initiative not only aligns with global sustainability goals but also paves the way for a more responsible approach to chemical production, reaffirming the necessity for industries to adapt to the demands of a changing environment. As the world moves toward more stringent regulations on carbon emissions, this project is poised to emerge as a model for future facilities looking to balance industrial production with ecological responsibility.

The endeavor is a clear indication that innovative technologies can reshape the chemical manufacturing landscape, making it possible to produce essential materials while minimizing environmental impact. By setting these standards, NEXTCHEM and Transition Industries are manifesting a vision for a greener, more sustainable future in the chemical industry and beyond.