Turkmenistan Prioritizes Hydrogen Energy Development
Turkmenistan is making significant strides in the development of hydrogen energy, positioning it as a strategic priority within its broader commitment to sustainable and environmentally friendly energy solutions. This initiative aligns with the country's transition toward low-carbon fuels and climate resilience. The nation's efforts are guided by the 'Roadmap for the Development of International Cooperation in the Field of Hydrogen Energy of Turkmenistan for 2022-2023'.
Hydrogen Energy Center Established in Ashgabat
A cornerstone of Turkmenistan's hydrogen strategy is the establishment of the Hydrogen Energy Center at the Yagshygeldi Kakayev International University of Oil and Gas in Ashgabat. The center, which became operational in early 2022, focuses on training high-level specialists, fostering international scientific cooperation, and conducting research. Notable achievements include the production of green hydrogen from water through electrolysis and the development of a laboratory-scale installation for extracting hydrogen from natural gas using an innovative plasma-chemical process.
Forging International Collaborations
Turkmenistan has actively pursued international partnerships to enhance its hydrogen energy capabilities and facilitate technical exchange.
- Collaboration with Japan: The country has engaged with Japanese entities including the University of Tsukuba, Iwatani Corporation, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries. A significant development occurred on April 7, 2025, when the Ministry of Education of Turkmenistan and the University of Tsukuba signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint scientific research and training programs in hydrogen energy for 2025-2026.
- Partnership with IAEA: Turkmenistan has hosted expert seminars and consultations with specialists from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Discussions are underway to sign a Framework Program for Cooperation for 2025-2029 between Turkmenistan and the IAEA, outlining priority areas for collaboration. A delegation from Turkmenistan also participated in the 69th Regular Session of the IAEA General Conference in Vienna from September 15 to 19, 2025, highlighting cooperation in areas such as food security, water resource management, and healthcare.
- Engagement with Imperial College London: Expert seminars and consultations have also been held with specialists from Imperial College London, further broadening Turkmenistan's international network in hydrogen research.
Strategic Vision for a Green Future
Turkmenistan's commitment to hydrogen energy is part of a broader national strategy to transition to a greener economy. President Serdar Berdimuhamedov proposed a global program for the transition to hydrogen energy for the period 2030-2040 during the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries in August 2025, suggesting discussions begin within the United Nations as early as 2026. The nation also has a National Strategy for the Development of Renewable Energy Sources until 2030, which includes significant investments in solar and wind power, aiming to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and meet climate targets.
5 Comments
ZmeeLove
It's good to see investment in hydrogen, especially green hydrogen from water, but the plasma-chemical process from natural gas raises questions about true carbon reduction without further details on emissions capture.
Bermudez
Greenwashing 101. Let's talk about human rights and actual emissions before we praise their 'green' efforts.
Muchacha
Skeptical of any 'green' claims from such an opaque, authoritarian regime. Where is the transparency and accountability in these projects?
Mariposa
Hydrogen is notoriously inefficient and expensive to produce at scale. This sounds like a costly PR stunt, not a real solution.
Manolo Noriega
Developing a Hydrogen Energy Center is a strong move for future energy security, though the political climate and lack of democratic oversight in Turkmenistan could hinder truly transparent and effective implementation of these projects.