The first phase of the project will comprise an in-depth feasibility study coordinated by the global consulting firm Roland Berger. The feasibility phase will be followed by the detailed design and engineering, further project development and finalisation of offtake routes and financing. A final investment decision for the commercial scale demonstration project is expected during 2021.

The Alternative Energy unit of OQ, the integrated energy group of Oman, is joining hands with DEME Concessions. The so-called HYPORT Duqm Green Hydrogen Project, envisaging an electrolyser capacity of 250-500 MW in the first phase, will be part of an array of solar, wind and other alternative energy projects planned for development in a sprawling zone earmarked within the SEZ at Duqm. Recently, the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), which regulates the country’s free zone developments, allocated an expansive 150 sq kilometres for large-scale green energy investments at Duqm. OQ’s partnership with DEME Concessions in the delivery of a mega green hydrogen venture effectively marks the wholly government-owned energy giant’s formal foray into the promising renewable and alternative energy space in the Sultanate. It cited Duqm’s advantageous geographical location, in addition to the abundance of land, as well as solar and wind resources, to support mega-scale investments in green energy projects. Besides contributing to the decarbonisation of industries in the SEZ, green hydrogen and other spinoffs, notably green ammonia, will be shipped to international customers in Europe. While DEME and OQ will provide the funding, technology and other wherewithal, OPAZ will pitch in with regulatory support and other assistance. OPAZ is coordinating with all the government related entities to allow for a smart usage of the infrastructure that is being set up in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm. This includes access to high voltage power lines, access to the sea water intake for the generation of demineralised water and access to the Duqm Port for the export of green hydrogen and its derivatives. The prefeasibility study has demonstrated potential for a green hydrogen project in Duqm using solar and wind resources. This has enabled the decision for OQ to enter jointly with DEME into the engineering and design phase of the project.

Project is currently under planning stage.