RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s NEOM Green Hydrogen Company (NGHC) is advancing rapidly on the development of the world’s largest green hydrogen plant which is set to launch in December 2006. The project is 60% complete and relies completely on solar and wind energy to power a 2.2-gigawatt electrolyzer which will continuously produce hydrogen. The project lowers production costs and makes NGHC a global leader in green hydrogen development.
Green hydrogen produced through electrolysis by renewable energy emits no greenhouse gases and is an important element to decarbonize industries like heavy transport and steel production. NEOM, with its abundant solar and wind resources creates a competitive edge and a cost-effective production. The hydrogen’s transport and distribution in ammonia form is secured under a 30-year offtake agreement with Air products to take care of the increasing global demand.
In line with Vision 2030’s initiative, the project presents Saudi Arabia’s efforts in shifting from an oil dependent economy to renewable energy and technology sectors. The project lies in the northwest Red Sea development zone, benefiting from consistent solar and wind energy and supporting local economic transformation.
NGHC has partnered with universities and training programmes to develop Saudi expertise in green energy. To optimize electrolyzer technology and boost operational efficiencies, partnerships like 10-year agreement with Germany’s ThyssenKrupp have been established.
To refine processes and achieve lower costs, the project’s first electrolyzer will be tested prior to full-scale operations. Wesam Al-Ghamdi, NGHC CEO, highlights the plant’s scale, its strategic location and strong partnerships making it a global model for renewable energy innovation and is a paramount for Saudi Arabia’s future green energy projects.
