Oman to build 400km hydrogen pipeline network

Oman’s natural gas network operator OQ Gas Networks (OQGN) is planning to build a dedicated hydrogen pipeline by 2030, in line with a strategy to develop the sultanate’s renewables sector. 

The funding approval for the 300-400 kilometre project is expected by 2027, citing the majority state-owned company’s 2024 annual report.

OQGN will follow a phased approach, starting with regional pipelines, which can expand into a nationwide network. 

“By 2030, the company expects 300-400km of hydrogen pipelines to be built, with the final investment decision expected by 2027,” the company said in the annual report.

The pipeline will support eight consortia currently developing green hydrogen projects in Al Wusta and Dhofar governorates. 

OQGN is collaborating with Oman’s state-run hydrogen company Hydrom on the technical aspects of the pipeline system. 

The company also conducted a study last year to evaluate the complexities of developing hydrogen infrastructure and its commercialisation. 

Oman has announced a number of hydrogen-related projects this year. 

The HyDuqm green hydrogen project in Oman, led by a consortium of France’s Engie and South Korea’s Posco, said in March it expects to attract $7 billion to $8 billion in investment to reach full capacity.

Earlier this month, the Gulf state also signed an official agreement to develop a liquefied hydrogen corridor for exports to Europe. The idea was first announced during COP28 in Dubai in 2023.