Egypt's Bold Leap Into Blue Hydrogen: A Transitional Milestone
Cairo, Monday, 30 June 2025.
Egypt taps blue hydrogen, made from natural gas via carbon capture, as a vital step in slashing industrial emissions. This highlights Egypt’s proactive approach in the energy dialogue and renewables push.
The Role of Blue Hydrogen
In Egypt, blue hydrogen is emerging as a cornerstone of the nation’s energy transition efforts. By utilising natural gas and employing carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology, Egypt aims to significantly curb industrial emissions. This move not only aligns with global sustainability trends but also leverages the country’s existing oil and gas infrastructure to transition swiftly and cost-effectively towards cleaner energy solutions [1].
Infrastructure and Innovation
Egypt’s oil and gas sector, traditionally viewed as a core economic pillar, is now the launching pad for innovation in hydrogen technologies. Existing facilities and industrial zones across the country, such as in Suez and Alexandria, are being adapted to integrate CCS and produce blue hydrogen. This approach is notably quicker and more economical than opting directly for green hydrogen, thanks to the established natural gas value chain that Egypt already possesses [1].
Strategic Impact
The integration of blue hydrogen within Egypt’s energy mix is viewed not only as a transitional measure but also as a significant catalyst for wider adoption of hydrogen technologies. Dr. Laila Mounir, a consultant with the Egyptian Gas Association, highlights that blue hydrogen serves as an accelerator for Egypt’s decarbonisation goals, enhancing energy security while maintaining industrial competitiveness [1].
Global and Regional Leadership
Egypt’s participation in the Eastern Mediterranean Gas Forum positions it as a regional leader in energy diplomacy. By pushing for advanced hydrogen routes, Egypt is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping future hydrogen trade pathways. This not only strengthens regional ties but also reinforces its standing as a pioneer in energy transition initiatives within the Mediterranean and beyond [1].
The Broader Energy Dialogue
On the global stage, Egypt’s adoption of blue hydrogen speaks to its commitment to cleaner energy solutions. This initiative sets a precedent for later shifts to green hydrogen, making blue hydrogen a critical learning ground. The strategies and insights gained—ranging from safety to market pricing mechanisms—pave the way for a robust regulatory framework that can support Egypt’s ambitious renewable energy goals, including potentially reaching a 42% renewable mix in electricity by 2035 [5][9].