Green hydrogen projects in North Africa could threaten scarce water and ecosystems

North African countries including Morocco, Algeria, and Egypt are positioning themselves as key suppliers of green hydrogen to Europe, aiming to meet the EU’s target of importing 10 million tonnes of renewable hydrogen annually by 2030.

Green hydrogen, produced by splitting water molecules using renewable energy, is a clean fuel with potential to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions, especially in heavy transport and industrial sectors.

However, a recent study by researchers in materials and environmental science warns that large-scale green hydrogen production in North Africa could strain scarce water resources and harm marine ecosystems. The study modeled a 1-gigawatt hydrogen plant in a hot, dry climate and found significant water needs for production, treatment, and cooling.

North Africa’s best solar and wind resources coincide with some of the driest regions on the planet, raising concerns about sustainable water use. Countries like Egypt have signed agreements worth billions to develop hydrogen and ammonia hubs, while Morocco and Algeria have ambitious plans including land allocation and direct pipelines to Europe.

The study highlights potential environmental risks from these projects, emphasizing the need for careful management to avoid exacerbating water scarcity and damaging marine life in the region.