Neom Hydrogen: Saudi innovation driving a revolution in the global hydrogen economy

NEOM Green Hydrogen Co. (NGHC), a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious NEOM city, is on track to lead the global hydrogen market with a transformative clean energy initiative. The company’s CEO, Wesam Al-Ghamdi, unveiled bold aspirations at the Saudi Green Initiative Forum, emphasising that the project extends beyond building the world’s largest hydrogen plant—it seeks to redefine the global energy landscape. This initiative is a prime example of NEOM Hydrogen and Saudi Innovation driving the future of sustainable energy.

Set to begin operations by December 2026, NGHC will produce 1.2 million tonnes of ammonia annually. This output is equivalent to decarbonising 22,000 heavy trucks and saving up to 5 million tonnes of carbon emissions each year. Al-Ghamdi highlighted the project’s alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, focusing on decarbonisation, economic transformation, and skills development.

“This is more than a plant; it’s a blueprint for large-scale hydrogen production. It’s about building an industry, skill sets, and know-how in Saudi Arabia,” Al-Ghamdi explained.

The facility, powered entirely by solar and wind energy, will operate using a 2.2-gigawatt electrolyser designed for continuous hydrogen production. Construction progress has been swift, with over 60 per cent of the plant’s infrastructure, including hydrogen processing systems, solar installations, and wind farms, already completed. Major equipment such as electrolyzers, ammonia tanks, and storage systems have been installed, ensuring the project remains on schedule.

NGHC is also investing heavily in operational readiness. The company is actively recruiting skilled professionals and collaborating with educational institutions to build a strong local talent base. Partnerships with global technology leaders like Thyssenkrupp, Baker Hughes, and Topsoe ensure access to advanced technology and sustainable solutions for hydrogen and ammonia production.

Looking ahead, NGHC plans to operate a single electrolyser at ENOWA’s Hydrogen Innovation and Development Centre in Oxagon. This facility will refine operational processes and train engineers, further establishing Saudi Arabia as a leader in the hydrogen economy.

A pivotal element of the project is its partnership with Air Products, securing a 30-year offtake agreement to convert hydrogen into ammonia for easier transport to international markets. This strategic move positions Saudi Arabia to meet growing global demand, particularly in heavy transport and industrial manufacturing sectors.

The ambitious scale of the NEOM hydrogen plant serves as a model for the world. “We’re building hydrogen production at an unprecedented scale,” Al-Ghamdi stated. “This is a blueprint for others to follow, ensuring the world can meet its hydrogen demand.”

Beyond infrastructure and production goals, NGHC’s initiatives reflect Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global clean energy leader. The project symbolises a broader vision: creating a sustainable energy economy that sets new global standards and inspires innovation across industries.