Hydrogen from Saudi Arabia to be supplied via Rostock - Germany secures Saudi green hydrogen deal to fuel its carbon-neutral future

Germany has taken a major step towards its carbon-neutral future by securing a supply of green hydrogen from Saudi Arabia. A new agreement will see hydrogen produced using desert solar power shipped to the port of Rostock. The deal involves key energy and logistics firms from both countries.

The memorandum of understanding was signed in Riyadh by ACWA Power, EnBW, the Port of Rostock Authority, and VNG. Under the plan, hydrogen will be generated at a facility in Yanbu using wind and solar energy, ensuring a fully renewable process. To simplify transportation, the hydrogen will first be converted into ammonia before being shipped to Germany.

The Yanbu plant is set to begin commercial operations by 2030. Once the ammonia arrives in Rostock, it will be converted back into hydrogen using a specialised 'cracker' developed by VNG. This technology allows for efficient storage and reconversion, making the supply chain viable.

ACWA Power is also examining further opportunities in Germany. The company is considering investments in ammonia infrastructure, though no specific locations or additional sites have been confirmed beyond the Rostock partnership.

The agreement marks a concrete move towards integrating green hydrogen into Germany's industrial sector. With operations expected to start by 2030, the project will rely on solar-powered production in Saudi Arabia and advanced conversion technology in Rostock. The partnership aims to support Germany's transition to a low-carbon economy through renewable energy imports.