MENA H2TS Work Group

Africa's Hydrogen Opportunity: Untapped Potential Awaits A report by the Hydrogen Council and McKinsey & Company explores the potential of Africa to become a leading producer and exporter of renewable hydrogen, while acknowledging the challenges that need to be overcome. Here's a summary of the key findings: 1️⃣ Abundant Renewable Resources: Africa possesses world-class renewable energy resources, with high-capacity factors for wind and solar power, complemented by significant geothermal and hydro potential. This makes the continent ideally positioned to produce low-cost, clean hydrogen for both domestic use and export. 2️⃣ Sizeable Global Demand: Europe and parts of Asia are projected to face significant hydrogen deficits by 2050, creating a substantial export market for African producers. Capturing just 15% of the global hydrogen trade could lead to a multi-billion-dollar industry in Africa, boosting exports, creating jobs, and driving investments in renewable energy. 3️⃣ Challenges to Overcome: High Cost of Capital: Higher country-level and project execution risks in Africa drive up financing costs, making it challenging to compete with established producers. Project Pipeline Maturity: The African hydrogen project pipeline is less mature than the global average, with fewer projects reaching advanced stages of development. 4️⃣ Unlocking the Opportunity: Collaboration is Key: Close collaboration between governments, developers, investors, and importing countries is crucial to mitigate risks and unlock investment. Key Actions: The report outlines specific actions for stakeholders, including: Local Governments: Improve the investment climate, ensure regulatory clarity, and engage local communities. Importing Countries & Development Partners: Provide de-risking instruments, support policy development, and facilitate off-take agreements. Project Developers: Engage local stakeholders, work with experienced EPC contractors, and secure key hardware early on. 📈 The Report's Message: Africa has the potential to become a hydrogen powerhouse, but concerted effort is needed to address challenges related to project financing and development. By working together, stakeholders can unlock Africa's hydrogen potential, creating a win-win situation for the continent and the world. Let us know your thoughts💡 #Hydrogen #Africa #RenewableEnergy #EnergyTransition #GreenHydrogen #Investment #SustainableDevelopment

Hydrogen Europe Calls for Action: Ensuring a Robust Renewable Hydrogen Market in the EU ❇ The new Renewable Energy Directive (RED III), aimed at achieving 42% renewable fuels of non-biological origin (RFNBO) use in EU industries by 2030, presents both opportunities and complexities. Hydrogen Europe, in its recent position paper, outlines recommendations for successful implementation and urges swift action from EU Member States and the European Commission. Here are the key highlights: 1️⃣ A Tailored Approach is Needed: A "one-size-fits-all" approach won't work due to diverse industry structures, production potential, and risk profiles across EU Member States. 2️⃣ Enabling Conditions are Essential: Predictability: Clear and timely national strategies for hydrogen are crucial to guide industry investments. Infrastructure: Robust hydrogen transport and storage infrastructure is essential for a liquid market and achieving targets. Funding: Dedicated national funding is needed to bridge the cost gap between RFNBO and conventional hydrogen, with Carbon Contracts for Difference (CCfDs) being a key tool. Penalties: Clear and consistent penalties for non-compliance are needed to deter carbon leakage and ensure a level playing field. Certification: A robust, transparent, and widely recognized RFNBO certification scheme is crucial for investor confidence and market development. Crediting: ‘Book and claim’ systems with transferable credits will facilitate projects across Europe and incentivize RFNBO production. Product Labelling: Standardized and compulsory labelling for industrial goods will boost demand for green products and leading markets. Public Procurement: Governments should prioritize procuring green products like green steel and cement for public infrastructure. Carbon Leakage Protection: While CBAM is a positive step, its effectiveness needs further elaboration to prevent carbon leakage and ensure fair competition. 3️⃣ Key Recommendations for the Commission: Address the omission of imported hydrogen derivatives in the target scope to prevent undermining the overall ambition. Provide clear guidance on available flexibilities and conditions for penalty application. Accelerate the accreditation of voluntary certification schemes. Hydrogen Europe emphasizes the need for a collaborative approach between Member States, industry stakeholders, and the Commission to ensure a thriving, sustainable, and competitive hydrogen market in the EU. #HydrogenEurope #REDIII #RenewableHydrogen #EU #EnergyTransition #Decarbonization #Policy #GreenIndustry

📢 Unlocking Africa's Hydrogen Potential: A New Report from the Hydrogen Council & McKinsey 🌍 The Hydrogen Council, in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, is pleased to release a new report: "The Africa Hydrogen Opportunity: The potential, practical challenges, and possible unlocks". The report highlights Africa's potential to become a leading producer and exporter of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives, driven by its abundant renewable energy resources and strategic location. 💡Here are the key takeaways: Massive Potential: Africa could capture 15% of the global hydrogen market, attracting USD 400 Billion in investments and generating 13 million jobs by 2050. Challenges to Overcome: High financing costs due to country-level and project execution risks are currently hindering progress. Unlocking Success: Collaboration is key! The report emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships between governments, investors, and developers to de-risk projects and accelerate growth. This report is a call to action for all stakeholders in the energy transition. By working together, we can unlock Africa's immense hydrogen potential, fostering sustainable economic growth and creating a cleaner energy future for all. #Hydrogen #Africa #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #SustainableDevelopment #InvestmentOpportunities #CleanEnergyFuture

📢 Unlocking Africa's Hydrogen Potential: A New Report from the Hydrogen Council & McKinsey 🌍 The Hydrogen Council, in collaboration with McKinsey & Company, is pleased to release a new report: "The Africa Hydrogen Opportunity: The potential, practical challenges, and possible unlocks". The report highlights Africa's potential to become a leading producer and exporter of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives, driven by its abundant renewable energy resources and strategic location. 💡Here are the key takeaways: Massive Potential: Africa could capture 15% of the global hydrogen market, attracting USD 400 Billion in investments and generating 13 million jobs by 2050. Challenges to Overcome: High financing costs due to country-level and project execution risks are currently hindering progress. Unlocking Success: Collaboration is key! The report emphasizes the importance of strong partnerships between governments, investors, and developers to de-risk projects and accelerate growth. This report is a call to action for all stakeholders in the energy transition. By working together, we can unlock Africa's immense hydrogen potential, fostering sustainable economic growth and creating a cleaner energy future for all. #Hydrogen #Africa #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #SustainableDevelopment #InvestmentOpportunities #CleanEnergyFuture

🚀 New Zealand's Hydrogen Landscape: A Flourishing Hub of Innovation This map showcases the dynamic and rapidly expanding hydrogen sector in New Zealand, highlighting a diverse range of projects across various stages of development. Key Observations: 📌Nationwide Activity: Hydrogen projects are spread across both the North and South Islands, indicating widespread interest and investment in this emerging sector. 📌Focus on Green Hydrogen: A majority of the projects utilize green hydrogen production methods, aligning with New Zealand's commitment to renewable energy. 📌Diverse Applications: The map showcases projects focusing on various applications, including: ☑ From trucks and buses to ferries and aviation, hydrogen is being explored as a clean fuel for multiple modes of transport. ☑ Projects are underway to decarbonize various industries using hydrogen, particularly focusing on hard-to-abate sectors. ☑ Several hydrogen refueling stations are operational or under development, supporting the growth of a hydrogen-powered transportation sector. 📌 Strong Government Support: The New Zealand government is actively promoting the hydrogen sector through its Hydrogen Roadmap, safety standards, regulatory reviews, and low-carbon hydrogen certification standards. 📌 Research and Development: Universities and research institutions are playing a key role in driving innovation and developing new technologies for the hydrogen sector. 📌 International Collaboration: Many projects involve collaborations with international partners, indicating New Zealand's ambition to become a key player in the global hydrogen market. This map demonstrates New Zealand's proactive approach to embracing hydrogen as a key pillar of its clean energy future, paving the way for a thriving and sustainable economy. #NewZealand #Hydrogen #GreenHydrogen #EnergyTransition #RenewableEnergy #Innovation #Sustainability

🌍 Exciting news from the renewable energy sector! The latest IRENA report shows impressive job growth worldwide. Key findings from the Renewable Energy and Jobs Annual Review 2024: • Global renewable energy jobs reached 16.2 million in 2023, up from 13.7 million in 2022 • Solar PV remains the largest employer with 7.1 million jobs worldwide • Wind power employed 1.5 million people globally • Biofuels accounted for 2.8 million jobs, mostly in agricultural supply chains. The report highlights the need for comprehensive policies to support job creation, skills development, and diversity in the renewable energy workforce. As we accelerate the energy transition, ensuring these jobs are high-quality and accessible to all will be crucial. What do you think about these global job trends? How can we maximize the employment benefits of the clean energy transition in the MENA region? Let's discuss! #RenewableEnergy #GreenJobs #EnergyTransition #MENA #Hydrogen https://lnkd.in/d5JncBdT

📚 Shaping Sustainable International Hydrogen Value Chains The International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) recently published a report titled "Shaping Sustainable International Hydrogen Value Chains," which provides a comprehensive analysis of the emerging global hydrogen trade and its implications for sustainable development. Here are the key takeaways: 1. Renewable Hydrogen's Uneven Potential: Cost-effective production of renewable hydrogen and its derivatives relies on access to cheap renewable energy, water, and land – resources that are unevenly distributed globally. This disparity will likely lead to a new global market for low-carbon hydrogen and its derivatives, creating both opportunities and challenges. 2. Importance of a Comprehensive Sustainability Approach: International hydrogen value chains, especially those involving developing countries, require a holistic approach to sustainability, going beyond just emission intensity. Key aspects include economic viability, environmental protection (water & land use, biodiversity), social justice (job creation, community engagement), and robust governance frameworks. 3. Potential Benefits for Developing Countries: Renewable hydrogen production presents opportunities for economic growth, job creation, increased energy access, and industrial development in the Global South. However, risks such as unequal power dynamics, environmental burdens, and local resource competition must be carefully managed. 4. The Rise of Hydrogen Derivatives: Ammonia and methanol, which can act as both hydrogen carriers and direct-use commodities, are poised to play a crucial role in building new markets. This creates opportunities for developing countries to participate in both upstream and downstream hydrogen value chain activities, potentially increasing local value creation. 5. Need for Strategic Partnerships: International collaboration between potential suppliers, demand centers, and technology providers is essential to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies and overcome technical and economic barriers. South-South cooperation and knowledge sharing between developing countries can also play a vital role in ensuring a just and equitable transition. 📌 Overall, IRENA's report highlights the complex and evolving landscape of the international hydrogen market. It underscores the need for a strategic, collaborative, and holistic approach to ensure that renewable hydrogen contributes to a sustainable and equitable energy future for all. #RenewableHydrogen #HydrogenValueChains #Sustainability #IRENA #EnergyTransition #DevelopingCountries #GreenEconomy #GlobalTrade

In the ever-evolving world of renewable energy and sustainability, technical expertise is just one piece of the puzzle. To truly succeed, professionals need to master Networking, Collaboration, and Communication. These skills are vital to building connections, driving complex projects, and leading the global energy transition. 🌍⚡ In my latest article, I explore how these three pillars can amplify your impact in the energy transition and provide practical steps to enhance these skills. Whether you're starting your career or are a seasoned professional, effective networking, collaboration, and communication can make all the difference. Check it out and see how you can leverage your skills to make a bigger impact! 🚀 👉 https://lnkd.in/di3BsyX3 #EnergyTransition #Networking #Collaboration #CleanEnergy #Sustainability #Teamwork #CommunicationSkills #GreenHydrogen #ProjectManagement #RenewableEnergy #Decarbonization

🌏Australia's National Hydrogen Strategy 2024: A Summary This document summarizes Australia's 2024 National Hydrogen Strategy, outlining the government's vision and plan to make Australia a global hydrogen leader. Key Takeaways: Vision: To establish a clean, innovative, safe, and competitive hydrogen industry that benefits Australia's communities and economy, enables the nation's net zero transition, and positions Australia as a global hydrogen leader. Objectives: Make Australia's hydrogen industry globally cost-competitive. Demand: Identify and support the most prospective hydrogen demand sectors. Ensure communities are aware of and realize the benefits of hydrogen. Establish trade at scale and leverage purposeful partnerships. Key Actions: ✅ Hydrogen Production Tax Incentive: Provides a $2 per kilogram tax incentive for eligible producers of renewable hydrogen to 2040. ✅ Hydrogen Headstart Program: Addresses the financial gap between the cost and sale price of renewable hydrogen, focusing on early movers. ✅ Future Made in Australia Innovation Fund: Funds the deployment of innovative technologies and facilities linked to priority industries. ✅ Hydrogen Hubs: Expands investment in existing hydrogen hubs in regional Australia, linking them to future clean energy export industries. ✅ ARENA Support: Continues to support research, development, and deployment (RD&D) of clean energy technologies, including hydrogen. ✅ Concessional Finance: Utilizes government investment vehicles, such as the Clean Energy Finance Corporation and the National Reconstruction Fund, to enable large-scale projects. ✅ Strengthened Approval Processes: Streamlines and prioritizes approval processes at all levels of government to accelerate project development. ✅ Infrastructure Planning: Works with states and territories to analyze infrastructure needs, including water management. ✅ Workforce, Skills, and Training: Ensures the availability of a skilled workforce and provides training opportunities to support the growth of the industry. ✅ Regular Policy Review: Publishes an annual State of Hydrogen report, with more in-depth reviews every five years. ✅ Capacity Investment Scheme: Supports renewable energy deployment to reduce the cost of renewable energy, which in turn reduces hydrogen production costs. ✅ Research, Development, and Innovation: Invests in RD&D to drive technological advancements and breakthroughs in hydrogen and renewable energy. ✅ Sectoral Decarbonization Plans: Develops separate plans for specific sectors to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. ✅ Carbon Leakage Review: Reviews additional policy options to address carbon leakage. Australia's 2024 National Hydrogen Strategy sets out a clear and ambitious roadmap for the country to become a global hydrogen leader. Let's know your thoughts and ideas💡 #hydrogen #australia #energytransition #decarbonization #renewables #policy #strategy #climatechange #global #innovation #investment

Join us for a groundbreaking panel discussion on "Hydrogen Energy Technology and Educational Campaigns in MENA" on October 15th, 2024 at 5 PM Dubai time! ⏰ Dive into the future of sustainable energy with our distinguished panel of experts as we explore cutting-edge hydrogen technologies and vital educational initiatives shaping the MENA region. 🌍⚡ Our Expert Panelists: • Dr. Dimitrios Kyritsis - Associate Dean, NEOM University Pioneering research in sustainable fuels and energy systems • Dr. Lourdes Vega - Distinguished Professor, Khalifa University Spearheading innovations in CO2 capture and hydrogen research • Magdy Aly - Senior Engineer, ADNOC Leading low-carbon hydrogen projects revolutionizing the energy sector • Abhijith Suboyin - Sustainability Specialist Expert in decarbonization, emissions management, and AI-driven sustainability strategies 🔍 Key Discussion Topics: • Hydrogen technology advancements in MENA • Educational initiatives driving the energy transition • Challenges and opportunities in hydrogen adoption • The role of hydrogen in achieving net-zero goals 🔗 Registration Now Open! Secure your spot for this exclusive event by registering in advance. Please find the Zoom meeting registration link below: https://lnkd.in/d6GDFh_c After registering, you will receive a confirmation email with all the details to join the meeting. Don't miss this unparalleled opportunity to engage with industry leaders, expand your knowledge, and be part of the clean energy revolution! 💡🌱 Special thanks to the SPE H2 Committee Members for their valuable support during this process: Suhail Diaz Valderrama, Seyed Mostafa J. Raad, Yurii Moroz, Oumer Tahir, Dr. Ardian Nengkoda, Dr. Aziz Rahman, Ph.D., P.Eng., Hyerin Park, and others. #HydrogenEnergy #Sustainability #MENA #CleanTech #EnergyTransition #Decarbonization #NetZero #GreenHydrogen #RenewableEnergy #FutureOfEnergy #HydrogenEconomy #HydrogenFuel #H2 #HydrogenTechnology #HydrogenSolutions #HydrogenPower #MiddleEast #NorthAfrica #MENARegion #MENAEnergy #MENASustainability #ClimateChange #ClimateAction #EnvironmentalSustainability #SustainableDevelopment #GoGreen #EcoFriendly #CarbonNeutral #CircularEconomy #EnergyInnovation #CleanEnergyFuture #RenewableRevolution #EnergyEfficiency #SmartEnergy #FutureIsGreen #TechForGood #EnergyLiteracy #SustainabilityEducation #ClimateEducation #EnvironmentalAwareness #KnowledgeSharing #HydrogenMENA #MENAHydrogenSummit #HydrogenFutureMENA