Johnson Matthey has been selected by Guangdong Liquid Sunshine as a technology partner for a biomethanol plant planned in Tiandong County, Guangxi Province.

The development aims to support early adopters seeking lower-carbon marine fuel options. Construction of the first phase is expected to begin later this year, with an annual output of 75,000 tonnes of biomethanol planned.

The scheme also brings together East China Engineering Science and Technology Co. (ECEC), with the three parties signing a memorandum of understanding on future opportunities.

Johnson Matthey explained that its methanol synthesis technology will convert gasified biomass waste into biomethanol. The site is also intended to showcase gasification innovation and integration with renewable power systems.

If approved, a second stage would use excess carbon dioxide from the first plant together with electrolytic hydrogen to produce e-methanol. This would raise low-carbon methanol output without requiring extra biomass feedstock and could help meet e-fuel mandates, including those in Europe.

Alberto Giovanzana, CEO of Catalyst Technologies at Johnson Matthey, commented: “Johnson Matthey has worked in China for more than 30 years with the country’s largest, most successful energy and chemical producers. We’re excited to be a part of Liquid Sunshine’s plans and this project represents our second green methanol plant license win in China.”

He added: “Our world-leading methanol synthesis technology will play an increasingly vital role as the site eventually integrates biomethanol with e-methanol production. Once operational, this refinery will help meet the growing demand for fuel and energy security in the marine industry.”

Xi Jiang, executive president of Liquid Sunshine, remarked: “The renewable energy and chemical industries are entering a critical phase of accelerated growth here in China. We are delighted to have JM’s technical expertise on board, as we develop a world-class biomethanol plant.”

The venture will be led by Guangdong Liquid Sunshine, jointly constructed with the Tiandong County People’s Government and China Coal Guangxi New Energy, while ECEC will act as engineering partner.

Johnson Matthey noted that this is its second green methanol plant licence win in China.