Belgian-French chemical major Solvay and Italy's Sapio have kicked off a decade-long collaboration to produce renewable hydrogen at the former's Rosignano facility. This marks a major step in Italy’s push toward green energy and industrial decarbonization. 

The initiative is part of the broader Hydrogen Valley Rosignano Project, aimed at cutting CO₂ emissions from Solvay’s peroxide operations. 

Under the agreement, Sapio will build and operate a 5 MW electrolysis system, powered by a 10 MW photovoltaic array installed by Solvay. Once operational by mid-2026, the system is expected to generate up to 756 tons of renewable hydrogen annually, slashing the site’s carbon footprint by up to 15%. 

The project has secured €16 million in funding from the Tuscan Region through Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). 

The hydrogen produced will fuel Solvay’s peroxide production, which supplies critical industries ranging from electronics and water treatment to solar panel manufacturing. 

Carlos Silveira, President of Solvay Peroxides, called the initiative “a prime example of how we enhance our global peroxide operations while advancing sustainable solutions for essential industries such as energy, food safety, and electronics.” 

For Sapio, the project represents a milestone in building a comprehensive renewable hydrogen ecosystem. 

“The launch of this project marks a major step forward in the hydrogen value chain,” said Alberto Dossi, President of the Sapio Group and H2IT. “By fostering collaboration among industry, research, policymakers, and local communities, we are actively contributing to a cleaner, more sustainable future.” 

Mario Paterlini, CEO of Sapio Group, emphasized the broader impact: “This project, supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, proves that businesses can drive decarbonization and economic growth. In today’s uncertain world, joining forces is key to creating a reference point for the entire ecosystem.” 

The construction phase was officially launched on November 18 at the Rosignano facility. The event drew top leadership from Solvay and Sapio, along with national, regional, and local officials, all highlighting the strategic importance of renewable hydrogen in Italy’s sustainable growth agenda. 

The partnership signals a new era in industrial hydrogen production, combining cutting-edge technology, renewable energy, and cross-sector collaboration to reduce emissions while supporting vital industries. 

With mid-2026 set as the operational target, the Solvay-Sapio initiative positions Italy at the forefront of Europe’s green hydrogen revolution.