Pink Gold: The Middle East & North Africa’s Nuclear Powered Hydrogen Revolution

Abstract This review paper provides an analysis of the potential for pink hydrogen production in the Middle East, a region strategically positioned to leverage its growing nuclear energy sector for low-carbon hydrogen generation. The core objectives of this research are threefold:1. To conduct a comprehensive analysis of the current state of pink hydrogen production technologies. This involves evaluating their technical maturity, efficiency, and suitability for integration with the Middle East's existing and planned nuclear energy infrastructure, with a focus on comparing different electrolysis methods.2. To evaluate the techno-economic viability of pink hydrogen production within the Middle East's specific energy landscape. This entails assessing the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH), identifying economic challenges and opportunities, and considering factors such as infrastructure development and policy incentives.3. To identify the critical gaps that currently impede the development of a robust pink hydrogen economy in the Middle East. This includes an examination of infrastructure limitations, policy and regulatory shortcomings, and the crucial aspect of public acceptance of both nuclear energy and hydrogen technologies. The research methodology employed a systematic literature review. This involved a comprehensive search and synthesis of data from a variety of sources, including peer-reviewed academic journals, industry reports from organizations like the IEA and IRENA, government publications outlining national energy strategies, and reputable online resources. Keywords such as "pink hydrogen," "nuclear hydrogen," "Middle East," "hydrogen strategy," and "electrolysis" were used to ensure a broad and relevant collection of information. The review highlights the Middle East's significant pink hydrogen potential. The region's substantial nuclear investments, notably in the UAE and planned expansions in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, provide a strong foundation. Potential applications include decarbonizing refining and steel production, and exports. However, key challenges must be addressed:1. Technological gaps (e.g., HTSE deployment).2. Economic considerations (e.g., high costs, competitiveness).3. Infrastructure limitations (e.g., storage, transport).4. Policy and regulatory gaps (e.g., clear frameworks).5. Public acceptance (e.g., nuclear energy concerns). This review contributes novel information by providing a uniquely focused analysis of pink hydrogen within the Middle Eastern context. It moves beyond general global assessments of hydrogen to specifically examine the interplay between the region's nuclear energy ambitions and its potential to become a leader in pink hydrogen production. This regionally specific approach, combined with a detailed identification of the key challenges and opportunities, offers valuable insights for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers.