🇫🇮 GEN-H plans 200–300 MW zero-emission balancing power facility in Finland based on Hycamite methane pyrolysis technology

September 29, 2026

GEN-H Energy is planning a 200–300-megawatt balancing power project in Kotka, Finland, where electricity will be generated from natural gas without carbon dioxide emissions. Hycamite’s equipment – based on methane pyrolysis – will be integrated with an electricity-generating gas-fired power station. The companies have signed a memorandum of understanding on the matter.

The technology

Hycamite’s methane-splitting process produces hydrogen and solid carbon without direct greenhouse gas emissions. Unlike conventional natural gas combustion, the carbon is recovered in solid form rather than released as carbon dioxide. The hydrogen generated can be used immediately for power generation, with water vapour as the only combustion by-product.

Compared with electrolysis-based hydrogen production, methane splitting requires only a fraction of the energy input, enabling cost-effective hydrogen production regardless of renewable electricity availability. The solid carbon produced during the process can be supplied as an industrial raw material, and Hycamite is developing applications for high-value carbon products, including battery-grade graphite for electric vehicle batteries.

Sunila industrial hub

The proposed facility forms part of GEN-H’s wider vision for a major clean energy and industrial hub at Sunila industrial district in Kotka. The broader development includes renewable energy generation, hydrogen-based energy systems, pilot and research activities, and a cluster of companies supporting the green industrial transition. A solar power plant with a capacity of up to 100 MWp is also planned for the nearby Hietanen harbour area.

A key advantage of the Sunila site is its existing energy infrastructure. The former pulp mill was historically a major energy consumer and remains connected to Finland’s national natural gas network. The on-site connection point, with a capacity of 145–270 MW, provides access to the wider gas transmission system, including import terminals and storage facilities.

“Sunila is emerging as a significant hub for industrial decarbonisation and zero-emission energy production,” said Sami Somero, Managing Director of Kiinteistö Oy Sunila, which owns the site. “The extensive use of existing industrial infrastructure and the strong synergies between different operators are key drivers of the development. Hycamite’s technology offers the opportunity to transform the former pulp mill’s power generation facilities into a zero-emission energy asset.”

Grid flexibility and energy security

As Europe’s energy system becomes increasingly reliant on renewable generation, interest in long-duration balancing solutions continues to grow. While battery storage is highly effective for short-term grid balancing, hydrogen-based