Afghanistan's Green Hydrogen Leap: Biomass Powers a Sustainable Future
Kabul, Monday, 1 December 2025.
Afghanistan is tapping into its rich agricultural resources to produce green hydrogen. This move not only meets energy needs but positions the nation as a future contender in the global market.
Harnessing Agricultural Wealth
Afghanistan is leveraging its abundant agricultural and livestock resources to produce green hydrogen from biomass. This approach not only addresses energy shortages but also reduces environmental pollution. With an estimated 44 million tonnes of dry biomass available annually, predominantly from crop residues and livestock manure, the country’s capacity to generate hydrogen is significant [1].
Environmental Benefits and Economic Potential
Green hydrogen production from biomass offers multiple environmental benefits, such as reducing air pollution, which is a significant issue in Afghanistan due to vehicular emissions and industrial activities. By converting organic waste into hydrogen, this initiative also contributes to more effective waste management. As hydrogen is a clean energy carrier, this project could align Afghanistan with global decarbonisation efforts and potentially position it as a player in the international green hydrogen market [1][2].
Technological Pathways and Challenges
The preferred method for hydrogen production in Afghanistan is gasification, which provides a higher yield and is more cost-effective compared to biological methods. The estimated levelised cost of hydrogen ranges from $1.20 to $2.40 per kilogram, making it an economically viable option. However, the infrastructure for large-scale hydrogen production remains underdeveloped, suggesting a decentralized approach with smaller, regional plants might be the key to success [1][3].
Global Context and Future Prospects
Globally, hydrogen demand is projected to grow significantly, with an expected annual demand of 650 million tonnes by 2050. Afghanistan’s initiative is timely, as many countries, including those in the European Union, are scaling up their hydrogen production capabilities. By investing in biomass-based hydrogen, Afghanistan could not only fulfill domestic energy needs but also participate in international markets, thereby boosting its economy and sustainability credentials [1][4].
Conclusion: A Sustainable Future
Afghanistan’s move towards biomass-based green hydrogen is a beacon of hope for sustainable energy development. This initiative not only promises to meet local energy demands but also offers solutions to environmental challenges. As the world pivots towards cleaner energy, Afghanistan’s strategy could inspire similar efforts in other nations facing comparable challenges [1].