Research project MENAfuels
Roadmaps for the Generation of Sustainable Synthetic Fuels in the MENA Region for the Decarbonisation of Traffic in Germany
The future of mobility in Germany and the EU is characterized by a diverse portfolio of technologies and solutions. Besides e-mobility, the use of synthetic fuels could be a promising option. The production of large quantities of synthetic fuels (and chemicals) requires significant quantities of low-cost renewable energy. Especially the sun- and wind-rich countries of the MENA region with their large renewable energy potentials are suitable locations for the production of synthetic fuels and their precursors. Moreover, trade relations and infrastructures already exist with many countries on which can be built.
Research project MENAfuels | |
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Duration | December 2018 until March 2022 |
Funded by | Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action |
Project Participants | |
Yet, which potentials are available in the individual states? At what cost are the resources available? Which transport structures are needed? Which effects does the import have on value creation both in Germany and in the MENA states? Which interest do the states of the MENA region have to use their renewable energy potentials for domestic supply, but also for export? Which competitors are to be expected outside the MENA region and the EU?
In the light of these questions, the MENAfuels project analyses to what extent the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa) can be a strategically important trading partner in supplying Germany (and the EU) with synthetic fuels or their precursors.
Thematic Focus | |
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Sustainability assessment of synthetic fuel paths | Synthetic fuel demands in Germany |
Synthetic fuels are evaluated from a holistic perspective (incl. technological, ecological, economical, social and systemic aspects) | Modelling of cost-minimal fuel supply paths as part of the energy system and under consideration of industrial needs. |
Potentials of the MENA region for fuel production | Economy of fuel production in the MENA region |
Analysing in which MENAcountries which potentials for the production of synthetic fuels or their intermediate products would be available for export, considering the country's domestic demands. | Investigation of international trade relations and (socio-) economic impacts of synthetic fuel production in the MENA region. |
Finally, supply paths and roadmaps from the MENA region to Germany are outlined for the analysed fuels.
- Identification of opportunities and risks for the implementation of selected synthetic fuel paths
- Consideration of interrelations between the transport and industrial sectors in order to identify potential competitors for hydrogen-based products at an early stage
- Anticipatory consideration of possible risks and barriers in the MENA region and the influence of third countries
- Estimation of macroeconomic effects to indicate advantages and disadvantages of individual roadmaps for Germany and the MENA region
- Application of the theoretical analysis to three country case studies to verify the results by a detailed analysis of the local framework conditions
The research project will be accompanied by two expert advisory boards consisting on the one hand of interested industry representatives from Germany and on the other hand of relevant actors from the MENA region. The advisory boards are convened once a year and serve the purpose of validating the research findings.
The MENAfuels project analyses which new trade relations can emerge between the MENA region and Germany (and the EU) with regard to synthetic fuels or their precursors.
To this end, the potential demand for these fuels in Germany up to the year 2050 will be analysed along different scenarios, and a holistic approach will be applied to assess which technology paths are suitable for the production of these fuels.
In a next step, the potentials of the produc/on and transport of electricity, hydrogen, intermediate products or fuels from the MENA region are analysed and evaluated.
In addition, an in- depth analysis will be carried out as part of three country-case studies in the MENA region.
Further on, international trade relations as well as the macroeconomic, socio-economic and ecological effects of synthetic fuel strategies on Germany and the MENA region will be analysed.
The project thus provides orientation knowledge for ventures that envisage the MENA region as a potential partner for synthetic fuels. The results obtained can support decision-makers in making reliable choices about the use of their resources.
More information on research project MENAfuels:
