A recent study conducted by Deloitte has unveiled an interesting proposition: Morocco and Egypt have the potential to emerge as global frontrunners in the impending green hydrogen revolution.
The study forecasts that by 2050, North Africa could be positioned as a dominant exporter of green hydrogen, boasting an estimated annual export value of a staggering $110 billion. This bold prediction is founded on data models from the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the region’s abundant renewable energy assets, particularly its wind and solar potential.
This study doesn’t just highlight the potential of these nations but also the larger reshaping of the global energy landscape. It anticipates a staggering market worth of $1.4 trillion per year for green hydrogen by 2050. Green hydrogen, generated through the process of electrolyzing water with renewable energy sources, is poised to play a pivotal role in reducing worldwide greenhouse gas emissions and fulfilling crucial international climate commitments.
Industries notorious for high carbon emissions, such as petrochemicals, steel, cement, and fertilizers, are expected to significantly benefit from the adoption of green hydrogen. Moreover, sectors that rely heavily on heavy transportation, including aviation and maritime industries, are looking to hydrogen as a viable alternative to fossil fuels, especially considering the limitations of electric batteries in these contexts.
Currently, a mere 1% of the global industrial hydrogen produced is classified as “green,” generated through the eco-friendly process of electrolysis. In stark contrast, the dominant method involves producing “gray” hydrogen from methane gas, which releases significant greenhouse gases and contributes to climate change.
The allure of green hydrogen derived from sources like wind, solar, and hydroelectric power has sparked investigations into its potential applications. Some ventures are even considering the prospect of producing green hydrogen directly at sea, capitalizing on the proximity to wind turbines and desalination facilities.
Sebastien Douguet, head of economic consulting at Deloitte and co-author of the study, underscores the vital role that North Africa can play in the green hydrogen revolution. He points to Morocco’s underrated wind and solar potential, alongside Egypt’s strategic positioning to become a major hydrogen exporter to Europe by utilizing its existing natural gas pipelines.
While Morocco and Egypt are not far behind major players like the European Union and the United States, the study emphasizes that sustained public support for infrastructure development and coordinated public policies are pivotal for the green hydrogen economy’s realization.
The ascent of Morocco and Egypt as potential leaders in the green hydrogen realm epitomizes the transformative capacity of renewable resources in shaping global energy dynamics and mitigating the effects of climate change.
