Singapore-based oil exploration and production company Rex International Holding has partnered with Spain’s Helios Aragon to explore natural hydrogen in Oman.

Kallanish understands the two companies have signed a joint study agreement for the same.

Natural hydrogen explorer Helios operates the Monzon natural hydrogen project in Spain, the first such project in Europe – or so the company claims. The Helios group of companies are also conducting exploration activities in Poland and the UK. The company’s focus on Oman comes as part of its strategy to “grow a quality global portfolio” of natural hydrogen and helium projects, Helios says.

Helios plans to leverage its exploration learnings from across Europe, alongside Rex’s local operational expertise, to develop a “thorough understanding of the hydrogen play system in Oman,” says Helios Aragon chief executive Ian Munro.

“Oman is widely regarded as one of the more prospective countries for the near-term discovery of commercial quantities of natural hydrogen,” the ceo continues. “The geology is considered optimal for large-scale hydrogen generation, which is evidenced by the multiple surface seeps, some of which are almost pure hydrogen.”

John d’Abo, executive chairman of Rex, adds: “The Rex Group has been operating in Oman for a decade now, and the prospect of delving into a new form of energy in a geographical area that we are familiar with, is an exciting one.”

Natural hydrogen – also called white, gold, or geologic hydrogen – has been gaining increased attention as a potential cost-effective alternative to grey hydrogen.

However, a report from the Oxford Institute for Energy Studies (OIES) released this month warned that despite natural hydrogen’s potential, the probability of its success is currently low. The uncertainties around natural hydrogen’s origination, the requirement for new infrastructure, and storage and transportation issues, are some of natural hydrogen’s limitations.