Dubai unveils first solar-driven green hydrogen production facility

The Chairman of the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and the Chairman of Expo 2020 Higher Committee- HH Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum recently announced the inauguration of the Green Hydrogen project at the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park in Dubai, making the Emirates a leader in sustainable energy.

The project was implemented in alliance with DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority), Expo 2020 Dubai, along with Siemens Energy. It is the first solar-powered green hydrogen producing plant present in the Middle East and North Africa.

HE Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, was quoted stating that through the project, DEWA is focusing on supporting the production of green hydrogen from solar power, its re-electrification, and storage. The project facilitates buffering of renewable energy production, for fast response application as well as for long-term storage.

He further mentioned that the facility has been developed to accommodate future applications and test platforms for various uses of hydrogen, which includes industrial uses and potential mobility. Moreover, DEWA has explored and built a pilot project for green mobility with the help of hydrogen that can be implemented in the near future, along with a wide number of studies, business strategies, and a roadmap for the use of hydrogen.

According to HE Reem bint Ibrahim Al Hashemy, Director General Expo 2020 Dubai and the Minister of State for International Cooperation, the project focuses on inspiring many creative solutions that take the challenges of growing carbon emission levels. The scheme has showcased UAE’s focus towards renewable development efforts.

While Dr. Christian Bruch, President and CEO, Siemens Energy, added that the Green Hydrogen project outlines the importance of the partnership and focuses on developing innovative new clean energy technology along with tackling the prevailing threat from global climate change.  

It is worth noting that the project facilitates the storage of large quantities of energy for long durations. Hydrogen may be used for re-electrification through gas turbines, gas motors, and fuel cells.

Sources: https://www.prnewswire.com/in/news-releases/dubai-inaugurates-green-hydrogen-project-first-of-its-kind-in-mena-824591317.html