We recently caught up with Mohamed A. Elreheem, Engineering & Technology Head from Aramco Europe, Mohamed is part of our European Advisory Board and speaking in the E-Fuels & Hydrogen Propulsion Track at this year's event

 

What motivated you to join the Hydrogen Technology Europe Advisory Board?

The Hydrogen Technology Expo is one of the largest, global technical & technology focused industry events on hydrogen and CCUS, where leading energy companies, technology providers and manufacturers are exhibiting and meeting for networking and exploring business opportunities.

 

Could you provide an overview of the key topics you will be addressing in your presentation at the event?

My presentation will be addressing Synthetic Fuel Value Chain Opportunities and Challenges.

 

What aspects of the Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe are you most anticipating?

I anticipate more announcements on progress of hydrogen / CCUS projects, as well as technical presentations and sessions addressing progress of less mature technologies.

 

From your perspective, what are the primary opportunities and challenges currently facing the industry?

The synthetic fuel value chain presents various opportunities across multiple stages of production, distribution, and utilization to decarbonize the energy sector. Exploring diverse feedstock options, including Low carbon hydrogen, Green hydrogen, captured carbon dioxide (CO2), or even captured CO2 from the atmosphere will potentially reduce carbon intensity. Efficient sourcing and processing of feedstock can lead to cost-effective and sustainable production of Low carbon hydrogen and synthetic fuels. Improved conversion efficiency, lower energy consumption, and reduced carbon footprint can enhance the competitiveness of synthetic fuels. Breakthroughs in R&D can lead to technological advancements, process optimizations, and the development of novel catalysts or materials, further enhancing the competitiveness of synthetic fuels. Identifying market segments and applications for synthetic fuels, such as transportation, industrial heating, or power generation is another important cluster. Tailoring synthetic fuels to meet specific market demands and regulatory requirements can drive adoption and create new revenue opportunities. Since there are many uncertainties, strategic partnerships can accelerate innovation, reduce risks, and unlock new business opportunities within the synthetic fuel value chain. I personally believe that by capitalizing on these opportunities and addressing challenges such as technology maturity, cost competitiveness, and regulatory uncertainty, stakeholders can unlock the full potential of the synthetic fuel value chain and contribute to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.

 

The Strategic Forum will look at policy, regulation, and investments into hydrogen/CCUS projects, a new segment at the conference. What, in your opinion, is the most pressing issue facing the industry today from a policy perspective?

Two major concerns: the first is the hydrogen policy and regulation need to be clearly settled for the longer term, where the investors can make decisions for industrial scale hydrogen production, transportation and other infrastructure. The second, being that the policy / regulations should support low carbon hydrogen for its affordability to accelerate the energy transition.