Critical considerations for port selection in hydrogen export projects

HossamEldin Bakr Mohamed

Abstract


As the world moves towards a greener energy system, the hydrogen industry is seen as a promising one for the future. Transport infrastructure investments are complicated due to the many factors and changing project environment. The terminal's ideal location must maximize economic benefits while avoiding negative consequences.  Developing nations find it difficult to choose a port for a hydrogen export terminal.  Thus, this study addresses the key elements to consider while selecting a port for a new hydrogen export terminal.

The research uses a descriptive mixed methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative data to evaluate the importance of factors affecting the selection of a port for a hydrogen export terminal. Primary data was collected through a poll with industry specialists, while secondary data was gathered from academic journals and industry reports. The study employed Likert-scale ratings and open-ended responses to gather qualitative data. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the survey results. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes and patterns.

The research contributes to better understanding and measuring the importance of the factors that should be taken into consideration in the port industry while choosing a port to construct a hydrogen export terminal. The research presented fourteen factors that were classified under three types of considerations which are regulatory and standard considerations, port capabilities considerations, and, economic and financial considerations.

 

Received: 21 April 2025

Accepted: 01 June 2025

Published: 09 September 2025


Keywords


Port, Port Industry, Hydrogen Industry, Hydrogen Export Terminal

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References


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DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21622/MRT.2025.04.2.1314

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Maritime Research and Technology

E-ISSN: 2812-5622

P-ISSN: 2812-5614

 

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