Power Grid

Sohar Port and Free Zone has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Swiss company Heinat to explore and develop natural hydrogen resources in Oman. This agreement marks a significant step in advancing the Sultanate’s national energy strategy and supports its transition toward low-carbon energy solutions.

Oman aims to establish itself as a regional hub for clean energy, and natural hydrogen thanks to its cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits is drawing increased global interest. the signing was a continuation of a previous understanding between the Swiss company Heinat and the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in February 2025, reflecting the country's commitment to expanding its clean energy portfolio.

The partnership focuses on developing a fully integrated natural hydrogen value chain in Oman. This includes everything from exploration and production to storage and distribution, as well as addressing demand within domestic sectors such as industry and transport.

There are also plans to explore export opportunities to global markets. Additionally, the MoU allows Heinat to conduct technical feasibility studies under a defined timeline, paving the way for future investments in hydrogen infrastructure and reinforcing Oman’s long-term sustainability goals.

As part of the project, Sohar Port will support the development of dedicated hydrogen processing and storage facilities while upgrading its logistics infrastructure to handle the new energy source. Emile Hochstein, CEO of Sohar Port, emphasized that this MoU highlights the port's commitment to positioning itself—and Oman—as a center for clean energy innovation and sustainable industrial growth. The collaboration with Heinat not only supports the port’s green ambitions but also contributes to building a new hydrogen-based economy in the Sultanate.

Heinat’s Chairman, Stefan Afer, described the MoU as a practical step toward accelerating natural hydrogen development using advanced technologies like artificial intelligence and geological mapping. The project aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 goals by promoting investment in sustainable energy and diversifying the nation’s energy sources.

Natural hydrogen also known as white hydrogen occurs naturally in the Earth’s subsurface and is considered a low-cost, low-carbon alternative to conventional hydrogen production. With its favorable geography and expanding technical capabilities, Oman is well-positioned to become a major player in the natural hydrogen market and contribute significantly to global decarbonization efforts.