The Russian Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technologies of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) aimed at strengthening industrial cooperation in the development of hydrogen technologies.

According to the document, both sides agree to cooperate in the creation of equipment, especially for the production, liquefaction and use of crude hydrogen and fuel mixtures in which hydrogen is used as the main element. In addition, the parties will develop international standards for the use of hydrogen and align their national industry standards.

The MOU also encourages bilateral investment in hydrogen energy, joint search for solutions to emerging problems and the creation of a network of private companies in both countries that will facilitate joint development projects, Kallanish notes.

“The significant potential of cooperation between Russia and the UAE can be revealed in multi-vector cooperation in the design and production of equipment for the liquefaction, storage and transportation of hydrogen,” said Russian industry Denis Manturov after the MOU signing at the sidelines of the International Petroleum Exhibition in Abu Dhabi ADIPEC 2021. “In Russia we already have 41 projects on low-carbon and carbon-free hydrogen and ammonia.”

“The UAE offers several strategic advantages in the development of hydrogen fuels, including gas resources and clean electricity from renewable energy sources such as solar and wind,” said UAE’s industry minister Sultan Al Jaber. “Combined with the UAE's storage and transport capabilities, these advantages increase the country's competitiveness in hydrogen fuel technology.”

The UAE has made significant strides in hydrogen production, reaching about 300,000 tonnes/year from Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) refineries. In addition, Mubadala Investment Company, ADNOC and ADQ have established the Abu Dhabi Hydrogen Alliance to develop a roadmap to accelerate the adoption and use of hydrogen in the UAE.

By 2050, Russia plans to export up to 33.5 million t of hydrogen and take up to 20% of the world hydrogen market. By then, the export of hydrogen will bring Russia $100 billion/y.

In September, Russia finished the construction of the controversial Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline to Europe and eyes hydrogen export within 10 years.