Shell Oman has launched the sultanate’s first hydrogen fuel station. Meanwhile, the UAE trials green hydrogen for city buses. Both developments show the region progressing towards decarbonization – beyond electrification.
Oman’s first hydrogen station, a partnership between Shell Oman and Mwasalat and the Nama Power and Water Procurement Company, is at the international airport at Muscat, the nation’s capital.
The inauguration is an important step towards diversifying the Oman’s energy sources. It also aligns with His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik’s vision to make his country a leader in green energy. The Omani government has committed to achieving national carbon neutrality by 2050.
The aim of this project is to increase knowledge and investments in relevant technology by implementing renewable solar energy, local hydrogen production, advanced mobility technologies, and hydrogen systems, said Salim Nasser Alaufi, Oman’s Minister for Energy.
Mwasalat, a public transport company in Oman, plans to add 15 hydrogen-powered vehicles to its fleet, increasing the options for green transport for both the public and private sectors.
An Agreement to greenify transportation in the UAE
Oman is not the only regional mover in terms of hydrogen-powered mobility. In Dubai, one of the United Arab Emirates, the local Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has signed a trial agreement with ENOC Group to explore opportunities for green hydrogen mobility solutions.
ENOC Group will provide green hydrogen fuel to the RTA’s hydrogen-powered city buses, while also providing support and data, ensuring a comprehensive trial project.
This project aligns with Dubai’s Green Mobility Strategy 2030, which prioritizes the transformation of Dubai into a hub of sustainable and innovative mobility.
“Green hydrogen represents a compelling alternative to traditional energy sources, and the UAE is focused on developing a hydrogen economy”, explained Saif Humaid al Falasi, Group CEO of ENOC. “We are proud to be at the forefront of its adoption in the UAE.”
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