As part of a new agreement, Belgium and Oman will ‘further strengthen’ their collaboration in green hydrogen.

It was through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that this agreement was formalised and then it was signed between Hydrogen Oman (Hydrom), along with the Belgian Hydrogen Council (BHC).

The excellent new agreement, highlights the drive that both nations have to push the hydrogen economy forwards. The agreement also emphasises the joint efforts both parties have made to align policies, promote knowledge exchange and technological advancements, whilst simultaneously exploring opportunities around hydrogen production, infrastructure, transportation and finally, utilisation.

It has been stated by the International Energy Agency (IEA) that Oman, the UAE and Morrocco are all expected to exceed their current hydrogen production capacities by 2030.

It has also been suggested that the partnership will ‘also “explore pathways” to broader cooperation with other European countries, “by addressing legislative challenges and exploring new opportunities for R&D.”’

Oman’s Minister of Energy and Minerals and Chairman of Hydrom, Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, said that the MOU is a “defining moment” in the partnership between the two countries.

He continued, mentioning that, “Oman’s potential capacity as a hub for green hydrogen production, combined with Belgium’s role as a promising hydrogen-based industrial hub and strategic connection point to European markets, will strengthen energy security and create a seamless hydrogen supply chain. Together, we aim to accelerate the world’s transition to clean energy by fostering innovation and building the infrastructure needed to connect producers and markets worldwide.”

The IEA’s report said that, ‘Saudi Arabia will contribute to 40% of new capacity between 2024 and 2030, whilst Oman, the UAE, Egypt, Iraq and Morocco will be responsible for 44% of the region’s hydrogen production.’