TotalEnergies, a leading energy company, has announced its intention to cease operations at one of its two steam crackers at the Antwerp platform by the end of 2027. This strategic decision is driven by shifting market dynamics and surplus ethylene production in Europe, as the company seeks to adapt to an evolving energy landscape.
The Antwerp site, in operation for over 75 years, is TotalEnergies’ most efficient integrated refining and petrochemical platform in Europe. However, under pressure from petrochemical overcapacity and the loss of a major third-party ethylene off-take agreement, the company has made the decision to shut down its older steam cracker. This move is expected to result in a loss of approximately 15% of the site’s petrochemical output.
Job Security and Labor Reforms
- 253 employees will be affected by the shutdown, with all being offered internal transfers or retirement packages.
- Consultations will begin in late April, in compliance with Belgian labor laws.
- No job losses are expected, ensuring the continued expertise and experience of the workforce.
Investments in Low-Carbon Technologies
TotalEnergies is investing heavily in low-carbon technologies at the Antwerp site, including the utilization of 130 MW of capacity from Air Liquide’s planned 200 MW electrolyzer to generate 15,000 tons of green hydrogen annually.
Green hydrogen, produced using electricity from the OranjeWind offshore wind farm, will help reduce CO? emissions at the site by up to 150,000 tons per year by 2027, aligning with European Union RED III targets for renewable transport energy.
- 50,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) will be produced annually via coprocessing starting in 2025, helping aviation clients reduce their emissions in line with global net-zero goals.
- Battery storage and electrification of refining processes will also be implemented to reduce reliance on fossil-based inputs and further shrink the carbon footprint.
Grid Support and Electrification: A Model for Industrial Decarbonization
The commissioning of a 25 MW/75 MWh battery storage system in Antwerp represents the largest in its European portfolio. This project helps offset renewable intermittency and demonstrates the growing role of battery technology in industrial settings.
The company’s efforts to electrify its refining processes will further reduce its reliance on fossil-based inputs, contributing to a decrease in its carbon footprint.
Market Context and Sector Implications
TotalEnergies’ move to consolidate petrochemical production reflects a wider trend in Europe, where aging infrastructure and weakening margins are prompting refiners to streamline operations. The strategic repositioning of Antwerp, blending green hydrogen, SAF, and renewables-backed grid services, signals how legacy assets are being adapted to meet climate goals and economic headwinds simultaneously.
This announcement marks a clear pivot from commodity petrochemicals toward value-added, integrated, and sustainable energy solutions.
Key Takeaways
- TotalEnergies is adapting to an evolving energy landscape by transitioning its Antwerp platform into a low-carbon energy hub.
- The company is investing in low-carbon technologies, including green hydrogen, sustainable aviation fuel, and battery storage.
- Job security is ensured, with 253 employees being offered internal transfers or retirement packages.
As the energy sector continues to evolve, TotalEnergies’ strategic pivot is a significant step towards decarbonization and industrial resilience. By embracing low-carbon technologies and adapting to market changes, the company is positioning itself for long-term relevance and success.
Key milestones in the transition include:
• 2025: 50,000 tons of sustainable aviation fuel will be produced annually via coprocessing.
• 2027: The shutdown of the steam cracker will be completed, and the platform will transition into a low-carbon energy hub.
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