RAK Petroleum Authority and Decahydron Collaborate on Natural Hydrogen and Carbon Capture Initiatives
Ras Al Khaimah, November 27, 2023 – RAK Petroleum Authority (RAKPA) and Decahydron FZ have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch a project in Ras Al Khaimah focusing on the exploration of natural hydrogen and the pilot testing of carbon capture via mineralisation. This marks a significant step towards developing sustainable energy solutions in the Emirate and sets the stage for a future Exploration and Production Sharing Agreement (EPSA).
This initiative leverages the unique geological features of the Hajar Mountains with plans to drill two natural hydrogen exploration wells in RAK South over the next four years, one in each of the first two exploration phases. At least one of these wells will include CO₂ injectivity tests, assessing the feasibility of carbon capture via mineralisation alongside exploring the potential for natural hydrogen.
In parallel, RAKPA is establishing a regulatory framework with a team of specialised advisors to ensure the safe and efficient utilisation of natural hydrogen resources and carbon capture technologies within the Emirate. This effort aligns with the UAE’s commitment to sustainable energy and further establishes Ras Al Khaimah as a key player in promoting green investment, pursuing decarbonisation, and advancing technological innovation in the energy sector.
Chief Executive of RAKPA, Chris Wood, commented, “Our partnership with Decahydron represents a major milestone in Ras Al Khaimah’s transition to clean energy. By exploring natural hydrogen and advancing carbon capture technologies, we are not only offering innovative solutions, but also showcasing our commitment to environmentally responsible practices. As we prepare to present at the upcoming COP28 in both the Green and Blue Zones, this project highlights our contribution to clean energy and decarbonising hard to abate industries in RAK.”
Arnaud Lager, Founder and CEO of Decahydron, announced, “Our team of geologists has made a groundbreaking discovery in Ras Al Khaimah, identifying elevated levels of natural hydrogen, a finding independently corroborated by RAKPA. This remarkable discovery marks a major milestone for Decahydron, setting the stage not only for the extraction of natural hydrogen but also for advancing our pioneering work in CO₂ mineralization.”
The partnership between RAKPA and Decahydron plays a vital role in exploring opportunities to diversify Ras Al Khaimah’s energy portfolio and developing low carbon technologies. It sets a precedent for sustainable energy exploration in the region.