Hydrogen Project Development Advances as Fortum Partners with City of Kemi on Ajos Industrial Site

Hydrogen Project Development Advances as Fortum Partners with City of Kemi on Ajos Industrial Site

(IN BRIEF) Fortum and the City of Kemi have agreed to develop a 17-hectare industrial site on Ajos island as a potential hub for hydrogen and hydrogen-derivative production. Fortum will lead site development and investor engagement, while the final plant investment will be made by a separate project sponsor. The location benefits from port access, existing industrial zoning and nearby sources of biogenic CO₂, supporting opportunities for synthetic fuel production. The initiative aligns with Fortum’s clean transition strategy and could deliver jobs, tax revenues and long-term economic growth for the Kemi region.

(PRESS RELEASE) ESPOO, 16-Dec-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Fortum and the City of Kemi have entered into an agreement to jointly advance the development of a designated industrial site on Ajos island as a potential location for hydrogen production and hydrogen-derived fuels. The site, covering approximately 17 hectares on the western side of the island, is intended to support future clean transition industrial investments.

Under the agreement, Fortum will take responsibility for developing the site and promoting it to potential investors active in hydrogen and related value chains. While Fortum will lead the site development and marketing activities, the eventual investment decision and construction of a production facility will be made by a separate project investor.

The City of Kemi views the collaboration as an important step in attracting new industrial activity and strengthening regional competitiveness. If realised, the project could generate employment opportunities, increase municipal tax revenues and contribute to long-term economic resilience in the area.

The Ajos island location offers several strategic advantages for hydrogen-related projects. Its proximity to the Port of Kemi provides direct access to maritime logistics, while existing industrial zoning supports efficient project permitting. In addition, the availability of biogenic carbon dioxide in the wider Kemi region creates opportunities for producing synthetic fuels and other hydrogen-based derivatives, enhancing the site’s appeal to investors seeking integrated value chain solutions.

For Fortum, the project aligns with its broader strategy to enable the energy transition through low-carbon electricity and the development of new clean industrial ecosystems. By preparing and positioning the Ajos site for future hydrogen investments, Fortum aims to support the growth of emerging industries that can accelerate decarbonisation while delivering regional economic benefits.

Further information:
Fortum, Newsdesk newsdesk@fortum.com, +358 40 198 2843

SOURCE: Fortum Corporation