Eastern Mediterranean Region Poised to Become Global Energy Hub Through Hydrogen Integration
Key Ideas
  • Blending hydrogen into natural gas pipelines in the eastern Mediterranean region is technically feasible, offering an interim solution until dedicated hydrogen infrastructure is developed.
  • The region's potential to evolve into a global energy hub is highlighted, focusing on supplying gas to European markets and advancing sustainable energy practices.
  • Countries like Egypt and Greece are actively targeting hydrogen production and integrating renewable energy projects into their existing infrastructure to achieve long-term energy transition goals.
  • Initiatives such as Egypt's National Low-Carbon Hydrogen Strategy and Greece's NECP 2021–2030 demonstrate a positive shift towards low-carbon economies and the development of dedicated hydrogen infrastructure.
A new report from the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum and the International Gas Union indicates that blending up to 20% hydrogen into natural gas pipelines in the eastern Mediterranean region is technically feasible. This approach can serve as an interim solution while dedicated hydrogen infrastructure is developed. The report suggests that some terminals in the region could be adapted to handle liquefied hydrogen or ammonia, leveraging existing LNG infrastructure to access international hydrogen markets, especially in Europe where demand for low-carbon hydrogen is expected to rise. The forum, representing multiple countries in the region, sees potential for the area to become a global energy hub, supplying gas to European and international markets while promoting sustainable energy practices. The report emphasizes the importance of sustained dialogue to navigate the geopolitical complexities of the region for smooth development and integration of gas resources. Investments in cleaner gas technologies and regulatory frameworks to facilitate private sector involvement are deemed crucial for long-term success. The report also highlights the significance of integrating hydrogen production and renewable energy projects to existing natural gas infrastructure as a cost-effective path towards broader energy transition goals. Countries like Egypt and Greece have introduced strategies to target hydrogen production and shift towards low-carbon economies. Egypt aims to significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions by expanding the use of green hydrogen and ammonia in various industrial applications. Greece, on the other hand, focuses on developing a dedicated hydrogen pipeline network and increasing green hydrogen production for applications such as synthetic fuel manufacturing. The strategies of both countries showcase a positive momentum towards sustainable energy practices and the integration of hydrogen in their energy systems.
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