A recent study led by Mohamed G. Gado from the Mechanical Power Engineering Department at Helwan University in Cairo has shed light on the potential of green hydrogen and ammonia production in Egypt, utilizing solar and wind energy resources. Published in e-Prime: Advances in Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Energy, this research addresses the pressing issue of energy resource shortages while promoting sustainable energy solutions.
The study focuses on two well-known processes: water splitting for hydrogen production and the Haber-Bosch process for ammonia synthesis. By analyzing three distinct sites in Egypt—Jarjoub along the Mediterranean coast, and Ain Sokhna and Jabal Al-Zait on the Red Sea—the research quantifies energy outputs and economic parameters, including the levelized costs of energy (LCOE), hydrogen (LCOH), and ammonia (LCOA).
The findings reveal that Ain Sokhna is particularly promising, achieving the lowest costs of 12.58 $/MWh for energy, 1.91 $/kg for hydrogen, and 396.1 $/ton for ammonia. Gado notes, “The results indicate that solar resources are significantly more economical than wind resources in these locations.” This insight could position Ain Sokhna as a key player in the green hydrogen and ammonia market, especially given its proximity to European markets, where demand for clean energy carriers is surging.
While wind resources were found to be less cost-effective at the studied sites, Jabal Al-Zait still represents a favorable location for wind energy applications, with LCOE, LCOH, and LCOA values of 23.67 $/MWh, 2.75 $/kg, and 547.8 $/ton, respectively. This suggests that, despite being less competitive than solar, wind energy could still play a role in diversifying Egypt’s energy portfolio.
The implications of this research are significant for the energy sector in Egypt and beyond. As countries strive to meet climate goals and transition to cleaner energy sources, the development of green hydrogen and ammonia can facilitate a shift away from fossil fuels. Egypt’s geographical advantages, including abundant sunlight and wind, position it as a potential hub for green energy exports.
This study highlights not only the feasibility of producing green hydrogen and ammonia in Egypt but also the economic viability of these processes. With increasing global interest in sustainable energy solutions, the findings from Gado’s research could pave the way for investments and advancements in the region’s energy infrastructure. As the world moves toward decarbonization, Egypt stands to gain from leveraging its renewable resources effectively, making this research a timely contribution to the ongoing energy transition.
