Saudi Aramco's Ambitious Plans for Blue Hydrogen Expansion
Key Ideas
  • Saudi Aramco is expanding investments in clean hydrogen, CCS, and renewable power through its New Energies division, focusing on blue hydrogen production for global energy systems.
  • The company aims to produce up to 11 million tons of blue ammonia per year by 2030 from blue hydrogen, with a strategic investment in commercial-scale blue hydrogen production through BHIG in Jubail.
  • Aramco's blue hydrogen ambitions are tied to the Jafurah gas project and CCS plans, with a goal to capture 14 million tons of CO2 by 2035, contributing to Saudi Arabia's net-zero goals.
  • The company's expertise in CCS and plans for a lower-carbon hydrogen network, combined with government incentives globally, indicate a positive outlook for blue hydrogen projects and partnerships.
Saudi Aramco is intensifying its efforts to expand investments in clean hydrogen, carbon capture and storage (CCS), and renewable power through its New Energies division. While the focus has been on green hydrogen in projects like Neom, the company is steadily advancing its strategy in blue hydrogen production. By 2030, Aramco plans to produce 11 million tons of blue ammonia annually, utilizing blue hydrogen made through steam reforming of natural gas combined with carbon capture. Recent investments in commercial-scale blue hydrogen production, such as the stake in Air Products Qudra's subsidiary, highlight the company's commitment to lower-carbon hydrogen networks in Saudi Arabia. The development of the Jafurah gas project is crucial for Aramco's blue hydrogen ambitions. Aramco's CCS plans to capture 14 million tons of CO2 by 2035 align with its goal of contributing to Saudi Arabia's net-zero targets. The company's involvement in CCS dates back to the Uthmaniyah project in 2015, capturing CO2 at the Hawiyah Naturals Gas Liquids plant. The strategic use of captured CO2, including in chemicals production, indicates a comprehensive approach to sustainability. The company's blue hydrogen initiatives are receiving support from government incentives globally, with Japan and South Korea emerging as potential customers. Aramco's plans to connect hydrogen producers with offtakers and leverage existing infrastructure in industrial hubs like Jubail indicate a positive outlook for the future of blue hydrogen projects. By combining expertise in CCS, blue hydrogen production, and ammonia, Aramco is positioned to play a significant role in the global energy transition towards more sustainable practices.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.