KAUST researchers are working on green hydrogen production, which uses renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen. The current methods are capital intensive and require desalinated water, which is scarce in desert regions. KAUST is partnering with NEOM, a futuristic region on the Red Sea, where green hydrogen will be an important part of the economy. Why it matters: Innovations in green hydrogen production and cost reduction will be critical for sustainable energy in regions like Saudi Arabia.
KAUST and KAPSARC have launched a book titled "The Clean Hydrogen Economy and Saudi Arabia", co-edited by KAUST's Dr. Saumitra Saxena. The book analyzes the global hydrogen economy through Saudi Arabia's perspective, discussing clean hydrogen research and technologies. Saudi Arabia aims to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2060 and become a major clean hydrogen producer by 2030. Why it matters: The publication highlights Saudi Arabia's strategic shift towards clean energy and its potential leadership in the global hydrogen economy.
KAUST, NEOM’s Education, Research, and Innovation Foundation (ERIF), and ENOWA have formed a partnership to support Saudi Arabia’s hydrogen economy. ERIF has sponsored three strategic projects under its Hydrogen and e-Fuels Applied Research Institute (HEFARI) with KAUST researchers focusing on developing hydrogen as a renewable energy vector. The projects cover carbon-neutral fuels, cost-effective electrolyzer technologies, and lowering emissions from green ammonia. Why it matters: This collaboration aims to establish Saudi Arabia as a leader in green hydrogen technologies and sustainable fuel production, aligning with the Kingdom's decarbonization goals.
KAUST, Abdul Latif Jameel Motors, and Toyota have formed a partnership to advance hydrogen fuel cell research in Saudi Arabia, supporting the Kingdom's decarbonization goals. KAUST has acquired proton electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell modules from Toyota to establish a dedicated laboratory under its Clean Energy and Research Platform (CERP). Researchers at KAUST are conducting studies to optimize PEM fuel cells for Saudi Arabia's environmental conditions, aiming to maximize efficiency and reliability. Why it matters: This collaboration supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and net-zero goals, fostering innovation in hydrogen technology and sustainable energy solutions within the region.
KAUST researchers investigated repurposing depleted oil reservoirs for underground hydrogen storage using liquid organic hydrogen carriers (LOHC). The study, led by Professor Hussein Hoteit, explores the technical feasibility and economic viability of this approach. It suggests that depleted oil reservoirs could serve as long-duration hydrogen storage sites, reducing the need for new infrastructure. Why it matters: The research supports Saudi Arabia's energy transition by utilizing existing hydrocarbon reservoirs for hydrogen storage, aligning with efforts to develop sustainable energy systems.