As the world rapidly shifts towards renewable energy, the Sultanate of Oman is positioning itself as a key regional player, pursuing ambitious wind and green hydrogen projects. It benefits from its strategic location and unique desert climate which serves as an open natural laboratory for developing energy solutions in arid environments.

Dr. Nafid Nasiri, from the College of Engineering at Sultan Qaboos University, led a qualitative study assessing Oman’s wind potential for green hydrogen production. The study offers a comprehensive evaluation of the country’s capacity in this sector while addressing a critical knowledge gap in the clean energy sector.

The study was not purely theoretical as it relied on detailed simulations covering 14 geographic locations across Oman. Advanced statistical tools were employed to evaluate wind resources, with this rigorous scientific approach allowing the research team to measure each site’s efficiency and capacity to generate stable and clean energy. It also enabled objective comparisons between regions, considering not only wind speed but also economic feasibility and the practicality of converting wind energy into storable and exportable hydrogen fuel.

Results identified Thumrait and Marmul as exceptionally suitable sites for investment in green hydrogen. These locations demonstrated a very high capacity to operate wind turbines efficiently throughout the year with consistent stability, which strongly supports the potential success of green hydrogen projects in Oman.

The benefits of this research extend beyond economic gains to significant environmental impacts. Such projects can drastically reduce carbon emissions – estimates suggest that a single site, such as Thumrait, could reduce thousands of tonnes of CO₂ annually. This palpable impact underpins Oman’s climate commitments, particularly within the framework of Oman Vision 2040, which prioritises sustainability and aims to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Green hydrogen therefore represents not only a promising economic opportunity, but also a strategic pillar for energy security and long-term carbon reduction.

The study considered the challenges of the desert environment, including scarce water for electrolysis and logistical difficulties in remote areas. To address these issues, the research team proposed innovative solutions, such as linking wind farms to alternative water sources and developing supporting infrastructure. Taking the approaches recommended by the research outcomes lays the foundation for an integrated renewable energy model in arid regions.