The operation of an LNG terminal in the Wadden Sea is subject to strict legal regulations and environmental require-ments. These regulations ensure that the operation is as environmentally friendly as possible and that the unique eco-systems of the Wadden Sea are protected.

The water law permit and the emissions control permit for the operation were issued by the State Trade Supervisory Office Oldenburg and the Lower Saxony State Agency for Water Management, Coastal Protection, and Nature Con-servation (NLWKN) after reviewing all documents.

For the ongoing operation of the LNG terminal in Wilhelmshaven, high requirements have been set by the reviewing authorities. These include, for example, the requirement to minimize discharges, an alternatives examination for electrochlorination, and intensive water ecological monitoring.

The Jade at the FSRU site in Wilhelmshaven is categorised as a region with particularly high fouling pressure due to its high salt content. For regasification, the liquefied natural gas is heated by the temperature of the seawater. For this purpose, the seawater is channelled through the ship via a piping system and fed back into the Jade via the seawater outlets.

To prevent organic fouling of the pipe system (so-called "biofouling"), the seawater is treated using electrochlorination. The chlorine is produced using a process known as electrochlorination. A small proportion of the seawater is fed into an electrolysis plant, which converts the sodium chloride (NaCl) ("sea salt") contained in the water into active chlorine (Cl2) in the form of sodium hypochlorite using electrical energy.

The active chlorine reacts with organic material (including microorganisms, algae and mussels) inside the FSRU pipe-work so that the organisms can no longer colonise it. As the active chlorine is produced from the salt naturally contai-ned in the lake water, no additional raw materials are required. This means that no externally added chlorine is required.

The NLWKN has imposed strict conditions on the use of electrochlorination for the "Höegh Esperanza". These include the requirement to minimise discharges and intensive aquatic ecology monitoring. Since commissioning in early 2023, all monitoring values have been well below the authorised limits set by the NLWKN.

Infrastructure: For the local population, it is important to have certain infrastructure, such as roads, electricity supply, and other services. These must also be carefully planned and executed to minimize environmental impact.

Tourism: Tourism is a significant economic factor in the Wadden Sea. Hotels, restaurants, and recreational activities create jobs and income sources for the local population. Sustainable tourism can help raise awareness about the pro-tection of the Wadden Sea.

Shipping: The Wadden Sea is an important waterway for maritime traffic. Ports and shipping routes are necessary for trade and the supply of coastal regions. There are strict rules to protect the environment. The Wilhelmshaven 1 LNG terminal is located on the shipping route to Jade Weser Port, Germany's only deep-water port. However, the FSRU "Höegh Esperanza" is far enough from the navigable channel not to interfere with shipping.

Fishing: The Wadden Sea is a significant area for fishing. Many people rely on fishing and shellfish farming for their livelihoods. These activities are often traditional and a vital part of the local economy.