OQGN and Fluxys Partner to Develop Hydrogen Pipeline Network in Oman
Key Ideas
- Oman's state-owned OQGN and Belgium's Fluxys signed an agreement to jointly develop a hydrogen pipeline network in Oman, supporting the nation's ambitions to be a major producer and exporter of green hydrogen.
- The initial phase involves developing 300 to 400 kilometers of hydrogen pipeline, with a national vision of establishing a network spanning 2,000 kilometers.
- Fluxys will hold a minority stake in the project and collaborate with OQGN to own and operate the network, aiming to bring renewable hydrogen to Europe and support Oman's sustainable energy goals.
- Oman targets producing up to 1.5 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2030, emphasizing the importance of this collaboration in meeting the country's hydrogen infrastructure needs efficiently.
Oman's state-owned natural gas network operator, OQGN, has partnered with Belgium's Fluxys to jointly develop a hydrogen pipeline network in Oman. This collaboration signifies Oman's strategic move towards becoming a significant player in green hydrogen production and export. The agreement includes plans for the initial development of 300 to 400 kilometers of hydrogen pipeline, with a broader vision of a nationwide network stretching 2,000 kilometers. Fluxys is set to have a minority stake in the project and will contribute to owning and operating the network. The partnership builds upon a previous memorandum of understanding to explore hydrogen and carbon dioxide network opportunities and Fluxys acquiring a 4.9% stake in OQGN. CEO of OQGN, Mansoor bin Ali al Abdali, highlighted the cost-effective nature of the partnership in meeting Oman's hydrogen infrastructure needs. Oman has been actively pursuing its green hydrogen sector, with plans to produce 1.5 million tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2030, with a focus on exports to Europe. Pascal De Buck, CEO of Fluxys, emphasized the expertise synergy in bringing renewable hydrogen to Europe while supporting Oman's sustainable energy objectives. Fluxys is also involved in developing Belgium's hydrogen network as its designated operator.