Aramco and Air Products Qudra have announced a collaborative initiative to develop a lower-carbon hydrogen production business by jointly acquiring an equity interest in the Blue Hydrogen Industrial Gases Company (BHIG) in Jubail. This move, subject to standard closing conditions, includes provisions for Aramco to procure hydrogen and nitrogen through the partnership. The investment is part of Aramco's strategy to expand its New Energies portfolio and enhance its presence in the alternative energy sector. The joint ownership of BHIG is expected to enable the development of a lower-carbon hydrogen network in Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, meeting the needs of both local and regional clients. The agreement underscores Aramco's commitment to fostering a sustainable energy ecosystem, with a focus on reducing emissions through advanced technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS). By aligning their capabilities in hydrogen production and pipeline operations, Aramco and Air Products Qudra aim to create a robust marketplace for lower-carbon hydrogen. BHIG, designed to produce hydrogen while capturing and storing CO2, will work in tandem with Aramco's CCS initiatives to ensure environmentally-friendly operations. Key executives from both companies, including Ashraf Al Ghazzawi and Dr. Samir J. Serhan, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership and emphasized the potential for commercial opportunities in the hydrogen sector with reduced emissions. The collaborative efforts are poised to drive innovation in the refining, chemical, and petrochemical industries in the Middle East, ultimately contributing to the establishment of a significant hydrogen network in the region. This strategic alliance between Aramco and Air Products Qudra signifies a step towards a more sustainable energy future.