Hydrogen Production & Supply

At Ras Tanura Oil Refinery, hydrogen production and supply play a crucial role in our refining and petrochemical processes. Hydrogen is an essential component in modern refining, used primarily in hydrotreating and hydrocracking processes to produce cleaner, high-quality fuels and remove impurities such as sulfur, nitrogen, and aromatics from crude oil fractions.

We produce high-purity hydrogen through steam methane reforming (SMR) technology, the most efficient and widely used process for industrial hydrogen production. This method involves reacting natural gas with steam in the presence of a catalyst, yielding hydrogen and carbon monoxide, which is then further processed into high-purity hydrogen gas.

To improve sustainability and reduce carbon emissions, we are investing in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies to mitigate the environmental impact of hydrogen production. By capturing CO₂ emissions from SMR units, we contribute to low-carbon hydrogen initiatives and support global efforts for a clean energy transition.

In addition to traditional hydrogen production, we are actively exploring green hydrogen production using electrolysis technology, which utilizes renewable electricity to split water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. This approach aligns with our long-term sustainability goals and supports the transition toward decarbonized energy systems.

Our hydrogen supply infrastructure includes advanced storage, distribution, and pipeline networks that ensure a reliable supply of hydrogen to refineries, petrochemical plants, and industrial consumers. Our dedicated hydrogen distribution system enables seamless integration into various fuel processing and energy applications.

One of the primary uses of hydrogen in our refinery is in hydrocracking, a process that breaks down heavy crude fractions into lighter, more valuable products such as gasoline, jet fuel, and diesel. Hydrogen is also essential for hydrotreating, where it is used to remove sulfur and other contaminants to produce ultra-low sulfur fuels (ULSF) that comply with stringent environmental regulations.

Beyond refining, hydrogen is a key component in the global energy transition. We are working with industrial partners and government agencies to expand hydrogen’s role in clean transportation, such as fuel cell vehicles (FCVs) and hydrogen-powered industrial applications. As demand for clean hydrogen grows, we aim to be a leading supplier in the region.

We are also investing in research and development to improve hydrogen storage and transport technologies, enabling us to expand hydrogen availability beyond the refinery sector. Cryogenic storage, high-pressure cylinders, and ammonia-based hydrogen carriers are some of the methods being explored to enhance hydrogen supply chain efficiency.

With rising global interest in hydrogen as a clean energy source, Ras Tanura Oil Refinery remains committed to advancing hydrogen production and supply technologies, ensuring energy security, environmental sustainability, and industrial innovation.