As green hydrogen takes centre stage in global decarbonisation efforts, the race to make it cost-competitive is intensifying. In 2023 alone, more than $570 billion was invested globally, positioning green hydrogen as a game-changer for clean energy. However, challenges in production costs, securing demand, and scaling infrastructure remain barriers to its broader adoption.

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region has a unique advantage, with abundant renewable energy resources, industrial heritage, and proximity to key demand centres. Yet, to realise its potential, the region must address bottlenecks such as the complexity of the supply chain, a lack of mature infrastructure, and the difficulty of establishing long-term offtake agreements for hydrogen projects.

Innovative approaches, such as Germany’s H2 Global initiative and localised research and development efforts like NEOM’s Hydrogen Innovation and Development Centre, are helping to bridge these gaps. By fostering regional collaboration and advancing storage and transport solutions, MENA can establish itself as a leader in the global hydrogen economy.

In Episode 22 of Future Energy Insights, Moderator Jeffrey Beyer, Founder and Managing Director of Zest Associates, is joined by Cornelius Matthes, CEO of Dii Desert Energy, and Panos Bafis, a leading hydrogen investment expert. Together, they discuss how the MENA region can overcome barriers, seize opportunities, and accelerate the path to making green hydrogen a cornerstone of the energy transition.

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