DNV has acted as the lenders technical advisor and provided technical due diligence reviewing the world's largest power plant project combining photovoltaic energy and massive storage of 128MWh by “Centrale Electrique de l’Ouest Guyanais” (CEOG).

DNV experts from four different countries evaluated technical risks and mitigation measures relative to typical industry practice; and advised on the technical status including the project description and site assessment, the license and environmental permits, the energy production modelling, and the design and technology review assessing PV modules, inverters, battery, electrolyzers and fuel cells. In addition, the scope of work covered the grid, power purchase agreement and financial model review, the engineering, procurement, and construction and operations and maintenance agreements.  

The project construction begins in autumn 2021 and commissioning is scheduled for early 2024. It is estimated to generate sales of around 17 MM euros for local businesses. The power generated by CEOG will be distributed in French Guiana’s grid and its production will be framed in a 25-year contract. 

“We are proud to provide our combined energy expertise to the world's largest green hydrogen-power project to the date, our aim is to enable green electricity to close the gap to meet Paris ambitions. Decarbonized power plants are an important aspect of transitioning towards a clean energy future. Our senior experience for all technology involved including solar PV, battery systems and hydrogen technology was a key differentiator during the selection process,” said Santiago Blanco, Executive Vice President and Regional Director, Southern Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America, Energy Systems at DNV. 

DNV’s Energy Transition Outlook forecasts that the future production of hydrogen for energy purposes will be dominated by electrolysis using dedicated off-grid renewables, such as solar and wind farms. By 2050, 18% of hydrogen will be grid-based and 43% will come from dedicated capacity comprising solar PV (16%), onshore wind (16%) and fixed offshore wind (9%).