Development and Computational Modeling of a Hydrogen Strategy for the Economic Transformation of Qatar

With the apparent impacts of climate change, the world seeks reliable and competitive clean energy alternatives and a consequent transition to a carbon-neutral economy. The intermittent nature of renewable energy sources introduces several risks, and efficient energy storage and transport technologies are being developed to circumvent such issues. Hydrogen is considered a viable option as an energy carrier and storage medium, offering versatility and reliability to the energy sector. With many countries recently announcing their national hydrogen strategies and the growing investments in hydrogen projects, the push towards hydrogen energy is gaining tremendous momentum. Qatar depends on natural gas exports for a significant portion of its revenues, making its economy as volatile as natural gas prices. Therefore, formulating a national hydrogen strategy is critical for Qatar’s economic diversification and transformation. This study presents a comprehensive analysis and a strategic framework for Qatar’s hydrogen sector, employing an agent-based model to simulate the global hydrogen trade until 2050.

The analysis includes assessing current conditions, developing an index for hydrogen export competitiveness, simulating diverse trade scenarios, and optimizing Qatar’s hydrogen strategy in alignment with evolving energy market dynamics, international trade relations, and the need for resilience and sustainability. The results emphasize the importance of policy changes, leveraging national strengths, strategic international cooperation, and investment in sustainable technologies to establish Qatar as a leading hydrogen exporter while also detailing the expected shifts in global hydrogen production, demand patterns, and the need for a transition towards cleaner energy practices to reduce environmental impacts and foster a sustainable hydrogen economy.