Export routes key for Mid-East hydrogen

Gulf countries are making bold strides into the hydrogen sector but appear likely to target exports over domestic markets

The energy sector has turned its focus on hydrogen as governments and producers around the world seek new ways to meet energy demand with an increased emphasis on sustainability. Blessed with around 834bn bl of oil and 2,670tn ft3 (75.6tn m3) of natural gas, the Middle East accounts for a 48pc and 38pc, respectively, of global reserves of those fuels. As a result, the region does not face the same urgency as some when it comes to investing in costly new technologies and—together with Africa—it has quickly fallen behind Europe, Asia and the Americas when it comes to renewables. Gulf countries have significant solar and wind power potential, but the difficulty of exporting electricity has pres