PUBLISHER: GlobalData | PRODUCT CODE: 1689315
PUBLISHER: GlobalData | PRODUCT CODE: 1689315
Many countries in the Middle East and Africa are scaling up their hydrogen production. While some of this hydrogen will support domestic decarbonization efforts, the majority is intended for export to demand markets. Africa is set to host 4 out of the 10 largest upcoming low-carbon hydrogen projects, and is focussing on green hydrogen production, leveraging its vast renewable resources. The Middle East on the other hand is focussing on blue hydrogen production, leveraging its vast refinery infrastructure.
The MEA region aims to rapidly establish itself as a key player in the global hydrogen market. Although the region currently accounts for only 11% of global active hydrogen capacity, a pipeline of large-scale low-carbon hydrogen projects is set to significantly enhance its global standing. Several African countries, chiefly Egypt, Mauritania, and Morocco are aiming to leverage their abundant renewable energy resources to produce cost-competitive green hydrogen. While some of this hydrogen will support domestic decarbonization efforts, the majority is intended for export to demand markets such as Europe. In contrast, the Middle East is pursuing a diversified low-carbon approach, with companies investing in both green and blue hydrogen. This strategy capitalizes on the region's existing refinery infrastructure and experience, while also aiming to position the Middle East as a supplier to global markets.