BWSC’s Role in Green Hydrogen Solutions
Burmeister and Wain Scandinavian Contractor (BWSC) is a global leader in specialized consultancy, engineering, installation, operation, and maintenance services for power plants and green energy facilities. Traditionally focused on engine and boiler-based plant solutions, BWSC is embracing new challenges to support the global shift towards sustainable energy.
The company originated from its former engine division, building and installing diesel engines before becoming an independent business in 1980. Since being acquired by Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding Holdings (MES) in 1990, BWSC has enjoyed long-term project stability and financial security.
Expanding Global Green Energy Solutions
Headquartered in Allerod, Denmark, BWSC has grown into an international service provider for thermal plant technologies, including biomass plants, waste-to-energy facilities, and Power-to-X solutions. The company is particularly focused on operations, maintenance, and delivering green energy projects. Its portfolio includes the design and construction of numerous global power plants, along with multiple Operation and Maintenance (O&M) contracts.
“Our aim is to provide our customers and the wider community with ever better energy,” says Carl Palmer, Plant Manager. “We recently strengthened our presence in the UK, now operating and maintaining 12 renewable energy sites across the country. We are always looking for opportunities to grow this portfolio.”
One example is the Snetterton Renewable Energy Plant (REP), a straw-powered biomass plant in Norfolk, England, with a capacity of 44.2 megawatts. “Snetterton REP has been operational for over six years, maintaining high availability and efficiency,” Carl explains. “The plant was designed with adaptability in mind, ensuring it met environmental targets outlined in the Best Available Practices review.”
Completed by BWSC in 2017, the plant is managed under a 15-year O&M contract led by Carl. “We’re always identifying new opportunities for expansion and improvement, often collaborating with clients. The long-term goal is to optimize safety, environmental performance, and energy availability.”
Reflecting on his role, Carl adds: “Being Plant Manager at Snetterton was an amazing opportunity to advance my career, overseeing the plant from construction to commercial operation. Having started as an apprentice over 20 years ago, I’m driven by continual development and proud to be part of the energy revolution.”
Advancing Power-to-Hydrogen Projects
As a committed player in the global green energy transition, BWSC is now focusing on emerging markets within the renewable sector. “In 2021, we formed a team to explore new opportunities in green energy, particularly carbon capture and Power-to-X projects,” Carl shares.
In 2022, BWSC confirmed its focus on Power-to-Hydrogen projects, partnering with Green Hydrogen Systems for a prototype project. “We manage project oversight, plant engineering, installation, and utilities for their new X-Series prototype, currently being tested at GreenLab Skive Circular Industrial Park in Denmark,” Carl details.
Later that year, BWSC collaborated with Andel Energi (Andel) on the Glansanger Biogas facility near Sønderborg, Denmark. “This green hydrogen project involves using hydrogen to upgrade biogas, enhancing yield and sustainability. BWSC acts as a sub-supplier for Mechanical Balance-of-Plant (MBoP) equipment and installation,” Carl notes.
Carl elaborates on the process: “Biogas generally contains around 40% carbon dioxide, which is usually vented to the atmosphere. However, by adding hydrogen, we can convert it into natural gas, significantly increasing the biogas yield.”
Meeting the Rising Demand for Green Hydrogen
With its versatile applications, green hydrogen is pivotal in the global shift to renewable energy. BWSC is experiencing a surge in demand for such projects. “We need to scale up electrolysis capacity to meet this demand. These projects are crucial steps towards providing sustainable energy solutions for future generations,” Carl emphasizes.
Looking ahead, Carl states: “We’re dedicated to understanding our customers’ needs and evolving our services to remain a trusted partner. We aim to expand our reach and output, particularly in power-to-hydrogen projects.”
“Our ongoing goal,” Carl concludes, “is to grow our service capabilities and engineering expertise, helping clients enhance plant performance through digitalization, upgrades, and technical services.”