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.
KAUST's Center of Excellence for Renewable Energy and Storage Technologies (CREST) hosted a seminar on rechargeable hydrogen gas batteries. Professor Wei Chen from the University of Science and Technology of China (USTC) presented the seminar. The talk covered aqueous nickel-hydrogen gas, proton-hydrogen gas, halogen-hydrogen gas, and nonaqueous lithium-hydrogen gas batteries, along with applications like self-charging batteries. Why it matters: Hydrogen gas batteries represent a promising avenue for large-scale energy storage, particularly for integrating renewable energy sources into electric grids.
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.
Lockheed Martin and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) signed a memorandum of understanding on November 15. The agreement was signed by Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and CEO Marillyn Hewson and KAUST Interim President Nadhmi Al-Nasr. Why it matters: This partnership could foster collaboration on advanced technology research and development in Saudi Arabia.
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.