Bridging Continents with Green Energy: Jan De Nul and Fortescue's Ambitious Partnership

In a landmark agreement poised to reshape the renewable energy landscape, Jan De Nul Group, a global powerhouse in marine construction, and Fortescue, a leading entity in green technology, energy, and metals, have joined forces. This collaboration aims to facilitate the transport of green electrons from energy-abundant regions to energy-deficient ones via subsea cables.

The partnership further strengthens the joint venture between Fortescue and OCP, aiming to supply green hydrogen, ammonia, and fertilizers to Morocco, Europe, and beyond. The agreement, signed in Rabat by Fortescue Chairman Andrew Forrest and Jan De Nul Executive Chairman Jan Pieter De Nul, underscores a commitment to driving sustainable energy solutions.

A Transformative Vision

The collaboration’s primary objective is to harness the shipping and subsea cable-laying capabilities of both entities to transport green electrons from North Africa to Europe. This endeavor promises significant benefits, including job creation, economic growth, and offering a sustainable energy alternative to citizens.

Jan Pieter De Nul, CEO of Jan De Nul Group, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The global shift towards electrification is undeniable. Direct transport and consumption of green electrons represent one of the most efficient strategies to reduce the world’s total energy needs.”

He further highlighted the group’s readiness for this energy transition, citing their expertise, skilled workforce, and a versatile fleet of construction vessels, including five state-of-the-art subsea cable-laying ships.

Expanding the Green Frontier

Building on the Fortescue-OCP joint venture, the partnership includes exploring the development of manufacturing facilities and an R&D hub to bolster Morocco’s burgeoning renewable energy sector. This venture remains subject to customary closing conditions, including regulatory approvals.

Andrew Forrest, Fortescue’s Chairman, emphasized the critical nature of this collaboration. “There is a vast opportunity to channel renewable electrons from Morocco and North Africa to Europe, providing industries and consumers with a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels,” Forrest remarked.

He pointed out the impending impact of the EU’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which will impose global carbon taxes on industries that fail to switch to renewable energy. According to Forrest, the current bottleneck in cable-laying capabilities hinders the connection between Morocco and Europe, making this partnership with Jan De Nul a pivotal opportunity.

A Legacy of Innovation

The collaboration signifies a continuation of a long-standing relationship between Fortescue and Jan De Nul, which spans over two decades. Their joint efforts previously culminated in the creation of the world's most efficient port in terms of loading throughput at Port Hedland, Western Australia.

This new partnership marks a significant leap towards a sustainable future, enabling the efficient transport of renewable energy across continents. As the world pivots towards green energy, the combined expertise and resources of Jan De Nul and Fortescue stand ready to lead the charge in this transformative journey.