Oman Identifies Thamrait and Marmul as Prime Locations for Green Hydrogen Development

A comprehensive research study by Sultan Qaboos University has identified Thamrait and Marmul as the most promising locations in Oman for green hydrogen production investments. The groundbreaking research led by Dr Naveed Nasiri from the College of Engineering represents the first comprehensive evaluation of wind-to-hydrogen potential across 14 geographically diverse sites in the Sultanate.

The study findings reveal exceptional capabilities for both Thamrait and Marmul to support continuous and efficient wind turbine operations throughout the year with high levels of reliability and consistency. These characteristics significantly enhance prospects for successful green hydrogen projects in these strategic locations.

Economic analysis demonstrates particularly favorable conditions at both sites with Thumrait showing a capacity factor of 41 percent and levelized cost of energy at 0.0302 USD per kWh. The location presents a levelized cost of hydrogen production at 6.31 USD per kg. Marmul demonstrates similarly competitive metrics with a 35.4 percent capacity factor and levelized cost of energy at 0.035 USD per kWh alongside a levelized cost of hydrogen at 6.5576 USD per kg.

The environmental benefits of developing these locations extend far beyond economic returns. Research estimates indicate that Thamrait alone could prevent the release of thousands of tonnes of carbon emissions annually with projections showing potential CO2 reductions of 5806.5 tons per year. Such environmental impact aligns with Oman Vision 2040 objectives and the national commitment to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

The research utilized advanced statistical tools and detailed simulations to evaluate wind resources across the studied locations. The methodology included assessments of not only wind speed but also economic feasibility and practical considerations for converting wind energy into storable and exportable hydrogen fuel.

Oman has already established significant momentum in green hydrogen development through Hydrogen Development Oman (Hydrom) which manages an expanding portfolio of planned projects. The country aims to install approximately 300 million solar panels and 10000 wind turbines alongside 5200 electrolyzers to achieve production targets by 2050.

Several major green hydrogen initiatives are already underway including Green Energy Oman which involves Shell EnerTech OQ and InterContinental Energy. This project targets 1.8 million tonnes of green hydrogen production annually using 4GW of renewable energy with expansion potential to 25GW.

The strategic location of Thamrait in Dhofar Governorate has been specifically identified for second-round bidding processes with four additional land blocks designated for development. The government has committed to providing investors with incentives including minimum land fees and waiving of land fees during development stages.

Research indicates that Oman leverages its strategic location and unique desert climate to offer what researchers describe as a natural open-air laboratory for developing innovative energy solutions suited to arid environments. The comprehensive approach addresses technical economic and environmental factors while overcoming challenges including water scarcity and remote site logistics.

The findings position Oman as a potential regional leader in sustainable hydrogen production supporting the country’s ambitious target to achieve 7.5 to 8.5 million tonnes per annum of green hydrogen production for both domestic use and international exports. Major international partnerships are already established with companies from Japan Western Europe and other regions committed to sourcing green hydrogen from Omani facilities.