Algeria is in a good position to produce green and blue hydrogen as clean sources of energy given its vast area and the abundance of gas, a local newspaper said on Monday, quoting government sources.
The North African Arab country, which is an OPEC member, is already on track to enter such industry following the announcement of a “national strategy for the development of hydrogen resources” by the Energy Ministry in early 2023, the Arabic language daily Elkhabar said, citing Ministry sources.
“Algeria possesses basic elements, including solar power capabilities and massive resources of natural gas, which put it in a good position to produce green hydrogen and perhaps blue hydrogen at competitive costs,” the paper said, adding that the country can become a reliable exporter to Europe in line with new partnerships that are being formulated.
According to the sources, costs of one kg of produced hydrogen are estimated at around $4 globally while they could be around $2-2.5 in Algeria.
Green hydrogen is produced by splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power. Blue hydrogen is produced by splitting methane, the main component of natural gas, into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide is then captured and stored to reduce its emissions.
Algeria is well-positioned to become a major producer and exporter of green and blue hydrogen. The country has abundant resources of natural gas and solar energy, and it is already developing a national strategy for the development of hydrogen resources. The production of green and blue hydrogen can help Algeria to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, create jobs, and boost its economy.
