Germany and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have enhanced their collaboration in hydrogen trade and climate protection, with a high-level delegation from the Gulf country visiting Berlin. Discussions between the two nations focused on key topics including hydrogen cooperation, emissions trading, carbon management, power grid flexibility, and decentralized solar energy, according to Germany's economy ministry. Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to advancing the global energy transition.
A highlight of the visit was a meeting of the hydrogen task force, established in 2021, bringing together representatives from businesses, research institutions, and political sectors from both countries to explore and advance hydrogen projects.
The delegation also discussed the UAE's efforts to introduce an emissions trading system, furthering their mutual goal of decarbonization. Sharif Al Olama, undersecretary at the UAE's energy ministry, emphasized the value of Germany's technical expertise, calling it a reliable partner in the UAE's decarbonization journey. “The UAE looks upon Germany as a reliable partner with outstanding technical expertise and innovative strength that can support us in our decarbonization efforts,” Al Olama stated.
Stefan Wenzel, Germany's parliamentary state secretary in the economy ministry, highlighted the importance of this exchange: “This intensive exchange has brought us one step closer to achieving our shared goal of accelerating the energy transition.”
The two countries' hydrogen partnership is underpinned by several joint ventures and research collaborations between German and UAE companies. In March 2022, these entities signed partnership contracts for the production, storage, and transport of green hydrogen and its derivatives from the UAE to Europe. The first hydrogen delivery from the UAE arrived at the port of Hamburg in October 2022, marking a significant milestone in the partnership.
