Oman is advancing its green hydrogen ambitions by exploring the repurposing of its existing natural gas pipeline network for hydrogen transport. The initiative, led by the German University of Technology in Oman (GUtech) and Oman LNG, aims to support the country's target of producing up to 8.5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2050. The study, conducted in collaboration with EJAAD, the research arm of Oman's Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation (MoHERI), evaluates the operational, technical, and financial feasibility of transporting hydrogen-natural gas blends through retrofitted pipelines.

Mohammed Al Mukhaini, General Manager ICV at Oman LNG, emphasized the strategic advantage of leveraging the existing pipeline network. "Oman’s gas infrastructure is already in place, socially accepted, and significantly more cost-effective than constructing new hydrogen pipelines," he said. The research focuses on hydrogen production hubs in Duqm and Dhofar, where repurposing pipelines could streamline the transition to a hydrogen economy.

Lead researcher Prof. Najah Al Mhanna detailed the study's scope, which includes assessing the behavior of hydrogen-natural gas blends and pipeline operating conditions. "Retrofitting pipelines can be phased as hydrogen demand grows, but it requires meticulous technical evaluations," he explained. The project underscores the critical role of public-private partnerships in driving Oman's energy diversification and achieving its Net Zero 2050 goals.

EJAAD's involvement has been pivotal in bridging academia and industry, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can accelerate sustainable energy solutions. The study's findings could set a precedent for other nations with extensive gas infrastructure, offering a blueprint for cost-effective hydrogen transport systems.