The Blueprint for Hydrogen Innovation: Inside ENOWA’s Hydrogen Innovation Development Center (HIDC) with Lotfiyah Kabli, Hydrogen Project Manager

A Journey to Clean Energy

When I first completed my chemical engineering degree, I never imagined that clean energy would become my career path. I spent my early years working in the oil and gas sector, but I soon realized my true passion lay elsewhere.

I've always been driven by the idea of creating a sustainable future. Over time, I recognized that my ambitions aligned more closely with opportunities beyond oil and gas, leading me to ENOWA.

The Perfect Timing

 I joined ENOWA the day before the Hydrogen Innovation Development Center (HIDC) project was set to launch. That was the first time I heard about it. While diving straight into such an ambitious initiative was daunting, it also felt like a sign, I was exactly where I needed to be.

 The HIDC is Saudi Arabia’s first innovation center focusing on the utilization of green hydrogen. What excites me the most isn't just the scale of the project; it's our unwavering focus on research and development. We’ve gathered world-leading experts in electrolysis and green hydrogen production to fast-track the development of next-generation hydrogen technologies. And we’re doing it at speed and scale.

One of the HIDC’s defining features is its recognition of the urgency surrounding clean energy solutions. We push the envelope daily to accelerate hydrogen’s role in decarbonization.

For many, hydrogen is synonymous with transport. But at the HIDC, we see a much bigger picture. Hydrogen has the potential to transform industrial processes, power generation, heating and more. We’re constantly exploring these diverse applications, proving that hydrogen is more than just an alternative fuel; it’s a catalyst for a cleaner future.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Sustainability Leaders

 One of the most fulfilling aspects of my work at the HIDC is shaping the Customer Journey experience. In early 2024, I was part of the team that designed this initiative, with a key focus on university students—and in the future, we hope to include high school students as well.

This effort aligns not only with the vision of the HIDC but also with ENOWA’s broader mission to invest in future generations and inspire the next wave of clean energy pioneers.

 We’re creating an immersive learning experience where students can witness the hydrogen process first-hand, from production to methanol conversion to its ultimate transformation into e-gasoline. We’re not just talking about hydrogen’s potential; we’re showing students that green hydrogen is already solving real-world energy challenges.

The Road Ahead

Looking forward, the HIDC is set to play a pivotal role in the future of energy. We’re laying the foundation for a sustainable energy ecosystem, demonstrating that clean, abundant power is within reach.

 Fortunately, we have some of the brightest minds from around the world working alongside us, challenging perceptions, pushing boundaries and driving hydrogen innovation forward. The diversity of our team fuels fresh ideas, fostering an environment of collaboration, creativity and progress.

 As we continue our research and projects, I am incredibly privileged to be part of this transformative journey. Together with our partners and the next generation of innovators, we are shaping a world where clean energy is not just a vision but a reality. And with Saudi Arabia at the forefront of sustainable development, we are proving that the future of energy starts here.