Muscat – Oman, represented by the Ministry of Energy and Minerals, has joined the International Partnership for Hydrogen and Fuel Cells in the Economy (IPHE), strengthening the sultanate’s engagement in the global hydrogen sector.

The IPHE is an international government-to-government partnership that seeks to facilitate and accelerate the transition to clean and efficient energy and mobility systems through hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

Oman’s accession is expected to enhance international cooperation in green hydrogen and support the development of a sustainable energy system, while reinforcing the sultanate’s position in the hydrogen and its derivatives sector.

The membership also supports the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly in economic diversification, innovation and sustainability, by enhancing the country’s participation in the emerging global hydrogen economy.

Through the partnership, Oman will have greater opportunities to cooperate with member states and benefit from international best practices in policy development, regulatory frameworks and technical standards. This is expected to support the growth of the domestic hydrogen sector and facilitate the integration of local projects with international markets.

The partnership will also provide a platform for cooperation on green hydrogen value chains, the harmonisation of standards, specifications and safety requirements, and the development of international trade in hydrogen and its derivatives. Such cooperation could help build greater international consensus and accelerate the safe and cost-effective deployment of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.

Oman will also be able to participate in joint research, development and innovation programmes, as well as pilot projects and international initiatives focused on capacity building and the development of specialised skills. These efforts will help build the expertise needed to support the growth of the hydrogen economy and attract high-quality investment.

In a statement to Oman News Agency, H E Salim bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, highlighted the importance of Oman’s accession to IPHE and the country’s commitment to contributing to international cooperation in hydrogen.

H E Al Aufi said Oman aims to establish a competitive global green hydrogen economy and, through its membership of IPHE, contribute to international efforts to drive innovation, strengthen cooperation, develop national talent and advance the policies and standards needed for a resilient and sustainable global hydrogen market.

Paulo Emilio Valladao de Miranda, President of the IPHE, welcomed Oman’s accession, noting that the partnership continues to expand as more countries commit to developing the global hydrogen economy.

He said Oman’s ambitious plans for low-emission hydrogen, strong renewable energy potential and focus on large-scale production and export opportunities made it a valuable addition to the partnership.

Oman also brings significant expertise and insights in areas including infrastructure, international markets, and policy and standards development, he said, adding that these capabilities would contribute to building a resilient and sustainable global hydrogen economy.