Egypt advances green hydrogen exports

Egypt’s Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouli announced that the 100-megawatt green hydrogen project in the Ain Sokhna Industrial Zone has entered partial production. Norwegian renewable energy firm Scatec is developing the project alongside the Sovereign Fund of Egypt, Orascom Construction, and Fertiglobe. The partners expect a full commercial rollout soon, with output targeted at European and other global markets.

Madbouli made the remarks during a meeting at the Suez Canal Economic Zone that brought together senior Egyptian officials, European institution representatives, zone authorities, Scatec executives, and several European banks. He pointed to the strong partnership between Egypt and Scatec, noting that recently completed renewable energy projects align with Egypt’s plan to expand clean energy in its power mix. He added that the government is considering raising its renewable energy target beyond 42 percent by 2030 due to rising investor interest.

The Prime Minister also highlighted the recent launch of the first phase of the Obelisk solar power plant in the Qena governorate, another Scatec-led project. He stressed the need to complete the second phase by the end of May to help meet peak summer electricity demand. Looking ahead, he referenced the Energy Valley solar project in the Minya governorate, which Scatec will develop with investments of about USD 1.8 billion. International lenders signed financing agreements for the project this week.

European cooperation featured prominently in the discussions. Madbouli noted strong support from the European Union and European financial institutions for Egypt’s green hydrogen and renewable energy plans. Electricity and Renewable Energy Minister Mahmoud Esmat said the ministry has backed the Ain Sokhna project from the start by securing land and energy supply and confirmed continued government support for the remaining stages. Scatec CEO Terje Pilskog welcomed the backing from Egyptian authorities and reaffirmed plans to export green hydrogen from Egypt to Europe. EU Ambassador to Egypt Angelina Eichhorst described Egypt as an emerging global leader in green hydrogen and emphasized the role of European financing in advancing its clean energy transition.

source : www.greenbuildingafrica.co.za