Kazakhstan’s hydrogen and ammonia markets are set to be boosted by a new partnership between KazMunayGas and Linde.

Having inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (Nov 1) to explore both green and blue hydrogen and ammonia production, the duo hopes to accelerate clean energy projects in the region.

To do this, a feasibility study will be carried out to evaluate both using natural gas as a feedstock, to create blue hydrogen and blue ammonia, and water electrolysis technologies to create green hydrogen and green ammonia.

Upon completion of the feasibility study, the partnership will then work to develop a green hydrogen and green ammonia production plant in Kazakhstan.

On the effort, Alik Aidarbayev, Chairman of KMG’s Management Board, said, “KazMunayGas has a consistent and balanced approach to the decarbonisation projects as part of its adopted Low-Carbon Development Programme. Cooperation with the world’s leading companies is a priority in studying promising projects in this area.”

Thomas Hilker, Linde Gas Rus Vice-President for Investment in Russia and CIS, added, “I am glad our company is able to contribute to the process of decarbonisation in Kazakhstan.

“In particular, jointly with our partner, KazMunayGas, which has taken the lead among other companies in implementing greenhouse gas reduction activities. I am looking forward to being able to bring our large experience in this area to real projects.”