Egypt along with other states could become a green hydrogen hub

North Africa is emerging as a key region in the global green hydrogen race, with countries like Egypt, Morocco and Algeria capitalising on their abundant natural resources and strategic location.

According to a new report from the Energy Industries Council (EIC), 41 hydrogen projects are expected to enter development in Africa by 2030, with North Africa leading the charge.

The report highlights the region’s year-round sunshine and proximity to Europe, make it an ideal hub for hydrogen production and export.

Germany, Austria and Italy are already eyeing opportunities to repurpose 3,300 km of midstream gas infrastructure to import 4 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually from North Africa.

Egypt is taking bold steps to establish itself as a global hydrogen powerhouse. Its National Green Hydrogen Strategy aims to capture 8% of the global hydrogen market and produce 10 million tonnes annually by 2050.

A significant share of this production will be exported, supported by plans for new pipelines and port facilities.

Morocco and Algeria are also leveraging their renewable energy resources to support green hydrogen development.

Morocco, for instance, has attracted international attention for its wind and solar projects, which provide a strong foundation for large-scale hydrogen production.

Despite these promising developments, the EIC warns of significant challenges. North Africa needs to invest heavily in infrastructure, such as pipelines and export terminals, to realise its hydrogen ambitions.

Regulatory frameworks must also be strengthened to secure investor confidence and streamline project approvals.

North Africa’s push into green hydrogen is closely tied to its broader renewable energy growth. The region is already leading in solar and wind energy, with Egypt and Morocco adding 9 GW of wind capacity in 2024.

Credits: energylivesnews.com