The Sustainable Energy Research Center (SERC) at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) has affirmed the Sultanate of Oman’s capabilities in emerging as a major producer and exporter of green hydrogen.

The new green energy industry, a top official said, will contribute to strengthening the economy, reducing the carbon footprint, and providing job opportunities. In addition, Oman has significant access to solar and wind energy. The country's strategic location and access to the sea provide an advantage for reaching global markets.

Dr Rashid bin Said al Abri, Director – SERC, emphasized that in the face of increasing greenhouse gas emissions and growing energy demands, countries worldwide are exploring sustainable energy alternatives.

According to the official, Oman is committed to developing the green hydrogen sector. The government has set a goal of producing 1 million tonness of green hydrogen annually by 2030. Authorities are also working on creating a regulatory framework for the green hydrogen sector to attract investments from foreign and local companies. Several international companies are already investing in the sector. Notable projects include Hyport Duqm, representing a consortium of international companies working on a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility in Duqm. This facility is expected to produce 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually upon completion by 2030.

“Oman aims to capitalize on its advantages and capabilities to target net zero emissions by 2050. The Center aspires to become a leading research hub for energy solutions not only in Oman but also in the Gulf region and beyond. This aligns with the global focus on sustainability and renewable energy, making the Center a crucial driver of sustainable goals in Oman's energy transition. Their focus areas encompass energy efficiency, renewable energy, public awareness, and sustainable development,” Dr Al Abri said.

However, before green hydrogen can be widely adopted in Oman, several challenges must be addressed, including the cost of production and the development of transportation and storage infrastructure, he pointed out.

To this end, Oman launched the National Hydrogen Alliance (Hy-Fly), consisting of 15 governmental, private, research institutions, and universities, to work collectively on hydrogen-related initiatives. The Sustainable Energy Research Center actively participates in this alliance by submitting proposals and studies aligned with the alliance's goals. Notable projects under this initiative include the "Hydrogen and Energy Transition Group" in the Wilayat of Sur, funded by Oman LNG. This project aims to explore Sur as a significant hub for transportation hydrogen and energy, ultimately contributing to decarbonization.

Another initiative, funded by Daleel Petroleum, seeks to unlock the potential of green hydrogen in driving economic development. The Center is investigating areas near Daleel’s oilfields for potential green hydrogen production using renewable resources. This initiative aims to assess the feasibility of green hydrogen production, considering factors such as solar potential and economic metrics. Results indicate comparable solar potential across the sites analyzed, with expected reductions in the cost of green hydrogen production by 2050. This project anticipates significant reductions in CO2 emissions and offers opportunities for producing and distributing green hydrogen, along with developing environmentally friendly industrial zones, he said.

The Sustainable Energy Research Center will host the "18th International Conference on Theoretical and Engineering Solutions, starting tomorrow October 23, 2023. The 3-day conference will serve as a platform for scientists, engineers, and policy makers to discuss the latest developments in hydrogen technology. Topics include hydrogen production from various sources, storage, infrastructure, fuel cell technologies, and safety standards and regulations.

A panel discussion will address challenges in green hydrogen production in cooperation with the Majal Center for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, the National Hydrogen Alliance, and the "Ejaad" platform. The results will be presented to the National Hydrogen Alliance and the Ministry of Energy and Minerals.