RINA and AFRY, two prominent engineering companies, have conducted a groundbreaking study on the feasibility of a hydrogen pipeline connecting the Gulf region and Europe.
This ambitious project aims to transport low-carbon hydrogen, a crucial component of future climate-friendly energy and industry systems, directly from the Gulf to Europe. The study reveals the immense potential of the Gulf as a cost-effective source of low-carbon hydrogen and presents a transformative opportunity for both regions.
The Gulf region, with its abundant Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and Natural Gas reserves, is poised to become a global leader in green and blue hydrogen production, as well as ammonia and other synthesis products. The proposed hydrogen pipeline would connect Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt, traversing the Mediterranean Sea to reach Europe. While it may seem ambitious, the initial assessment indicates the feasibility of this visionary endeavor.
According to the study, a well-designed pipeline configuration could transport approximately 2.5 million tonnes of hydrogen annually, equivalent to 100 TWh of energy. Furthermore, by constructing additional pipelines, the transport capacity could be significantly expanded, unlocking even greater potential for hydrogen transportation between the Gulf and Europe.
The estimated cost of transporting hydrogen through this pipeline is around 1.2 EUR/kg H2 initially. In return, the Gulf countries could supply Europe with green and blue hydrogen at Levelised Costs Of Delivered Hydrogen (LCODH) of approximately 2.7 EUR/kg by the 2030s, decreasing to around 2.3 EUR/kg in the long term.
The current geopolitical challenges facing Europe have prompted the exploration of alternative avenues for energy security. The proposed hydrogen pipeline offers a compelling solution, complementing existing initiatives such as the EastMed Natural Gas project and providing a competitive and efficient means of bulk transport for hydrogen and its synthesis products.
Antonio Nodari, a member of AFRY’s Executive Management Team, emphasizes the significant opportunity presented by this collaboration, highlighting the team’s understanding of both the opportunities and challenges associated with the project. The study not only identifies the obstacles but also provides practical solutions to overcome them.
Andrea Bombardi, Executive Vice President at RINA, underscores the importance of the study in advancing the hydrogen economy. The collaboration between RINA and AFRY has led to the identification of a potential stable corridor that brings together supply and demand. This visionary project represents a decisive contribution to the scale-up of hydrogen adoption and the integration of a green energy and industry system across Europe and the MENA region.
