Research Advocates Regulatory Updates for Enhanced Renewable Energy Adoption in Oman

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: A groundbreaking study evaluating energy consumption for the production of liquefied renewable methane and green liquefied hydrogen recommends revisiting laws and regulations to promote the use of renewable energy in Oman.

The research, titled “Liquefied Hydrogen vs Liquefied Renewable Methane: Evaluating Energy Consumption and Infrastructure for Sustainable Fuels,” conducted by Mohammed Abdullah al Breiki, a PhD candidate at Hamad bin Khalifa University in Qatar, has received recognition in the Young Researcher’s category for energy and industry at the 10th National Research Award.

The National Research Award, organized by the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation, acknowledged the study’s significant contributions to sustainable energy research. Breiki’s research delves into critical insights on energy consumption during the production of green liquefied hydrogen and liquefied renewable methane, as well as infrastructure readiness and regulatory frameworks for these fuels.

According to the findings, the production of green liquefied hydrogen and liquefied renewable methane requires approximately 0.52 and 0.63kWh/MJ of fuel, respectively. The study underscores the existing suitability of infrastructure for liquefied renewable methane while emphasizing the need for further development in green liquefied hydrogen infrastructure and related legal frameworks.

The research aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of clean fuels, focusing on carbon capture, efficiency improvements, and evaluating energy consumption in production, storage, and transportation. Mohammed Abdullah al Breiki explained, “We aimed to compare clean fuels in terms of technology, infrastructure, scalability, and regulations to identify the most effective and eco-friendly options.”

Highlighting the significance of the study, Breiki emphasized its contribution to the development of sustainable energy sources, reduction of fossil fuel dependence, and enhancement of clean energy utilization. Published in the peer-reviewed journal Fuel, the research is a collaborative effort between Breiki and Dr. Yusuf Bicer, an associate professor specializing in clean energy technologies at Hamad bin Khalifa University. The findings advocate for proactive regulatory measures to propel Oman towards a more sustainable and renewable energy future.