a day ago
Pact to explore sustainable methane pilot project in Oman
MUSCAT: Oman LNG has signed an agreement with Japan-based Kanadevia Corporation (formerly Hitachi Zosen Corp) to carry out a detailed feasibility study for establishing a pilot plant to produce sustainable methane. The initiative marks a significant step toward expanding clean energy technologies in the Sultanate of Oman.
The agreement includes two major components: a technical and commercial evaluation of a future commercial plant and a preliminary engineering study for a smaller-scale pilot facility. The commercial facility is expected to produce up to 18,000 standard cubic metres of sustainable methane per hour, while the pilot plant will initially generate around 1,200 standard cubic metres per hour.
The proposed pilot project will feature three core elements: a seawater desalination unit, an electrolyser system to produce hydrogen from water, and a methanation system that combines green hydrogen with captured carbon dioxide to synthesise methane. Technologies such as carbon capture and reuse (CCR) and advanced catalysis will be central to the process.
The initial phase will involve the preparation of detailed design specifications, cost estimates, and planning for engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) activities.
Hamad bin Mohammed al Naamany, CEO of Oman LNG, said the project seeks to turn environmental challenges into industrial opportunities by reusing carbon dioxide emissions to produce methane. 'This project leverages cutting-edge carbon capture and reuse technologies and integrates them into LNG operations, aligning with our goals for sustainability and innovation,' he stated.
This latest agreement builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding signed in March 2024 between the governments of Oman and Japan, which aims to foster collaboration in hydrogen, ammonia, and carbon recycling technologies. — ONA
