Saudi Arabia views Italy as a valuable ally in its efforts to deliver green energy and fuels, including renewable hydrogen, to Europe. Minister Khalid al-Falih expressed this sentiment at a business conference in Milan on Thursday.
This partnership is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to expand its low-carbon energy production and reduce reliance on traditional oil and gas.
Saudi Arabia is focusing on developing both blue and green hydrogen. Green hydrogen is made through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy. Blue hydrogen is produced from natural gas with the carbon dioxide emissions captured and stored underground or underwater. Although the market for these low-carbon hydrogen products is still emerging, Saudi Arabia is seeking partners like Italy to help export these technologies.
Al-Falih emphasized the importance of investing in infrastructure such as ports and pipelines to transport green energy to Europe. He plans to visit other European countries, including Germany, to explore additional opportunities for collaboration and customer acquisition.
Italy has already taken steps in this direction. In May, the Italian government signed an agreement with Germany and Austria to develop a hydrogen pipeline from southern Mediterranean countries to northern Europe. This aligns with the European Union’s goal to produce and import 10 million metric tons of green hydrogen by 2030, aiming to replace fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in green energy, it sees Italy as a crucial partner in connecting its renewable energy products with European markets. This collaboration reflects the growing global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.
