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Agreement Covers R&D in Critical Technology Areas Such as Clean Energy, Greenhouse Gas Emission Reduction, Low-Carbon Solutions for Offshore Vessels, Ocean Protection, Information Technologies, and Carbon Capture and Utilization

 Khalifa University of Science and Technology and ADNOC Logistics and Services plc (ADNOC L&S), a global energy maritime logistics leader, signed a collaboration agreement to undertake joint research on decarbonization and sustainable projects. 

The agreement was signed by Professor Sir John O’Reilly, President, Khalifa University, and Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, Chief Executive Officer, ADNOC L&S.

Professor Sir John said: “Khalifa University is delighted to enter into this collaboration with ADNOC Logistics and Services towards advancing research and innovation in low-carbon solutions and clean energy resources through our Research and Innovation Center on CO2 and Hydrogen (RICH center). Khalifa University is already a strong driver of innovation in carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), as well as hydrogen production, storage, and utilization, and we believe this partnership will further strengthen our research activities, yielding more effective sustainable solutions that will benefit global stakeholders.” 

In support of the UAE’s Net Zero by 2050 Strategic Initiative, ADNOC Group has brought forward its net zero ambition by five years to achieve net zero by 2045. As a global energy maritime logistics leader with a strong commitment to sustainability, ADNOC L&S has committed approximately $2 billion to invest in building environmentally efficient vessels. The company has already reduced the carbon intensity of its own fleet by more than 20% between 2018 and 2022.  

Captain Abdulkareem Al Masabi, CEO of ADNOC L&S, said: “Our partnership with Khalifa University demonstrates a shared commitment to decarbonization in the maritime sector and underscores the importance of technological innovation in achieving greenhouse gas emissions reductions targets. This collaboration will further accelerate research and development (R&D) programs, advancing low-carbon technologies and solutions on the path to achieving ADNOC Group’s 2045 net-zero goal, protect our oceans, and champion sustainability in the UAE’s maritime and logistics ecosystem.” 

The agreement covers R&D in areas including clean energy technologies, Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission reduction programs, and development of low-carbon solutions for the shipping industry, offshore vessels, platforms, and facilities. It will also cover technologies for Environmental Ocean protection, CCUS, sustainable fuels as well as information technologies and techniques. 

Additionally, the two partners will collaborate on post-graduate research programs for ADNOC L&S employees and engage in other initiatives connected with Khalifa University’s RICH Center. The agreement also includes participation in joint activities, such as technical inspections, workshops, and scientific or engineering panels. 

The RICH Center at Khalifa University already leads in R&D of novel materials and technologies for CO2 capture, utilization, and storage, as well as H2 production, transportation and utilization, and sustainable fuels, as key enabling technologies for the energy transition. More recently, a team of researchers at RICH led by Prof. Vega, in collaboration with Universitat Rovira I Virgili, Spain, has patented a novel integrated approach to evaluate new sustainable refrigerants using a machine-learning approach.

Clarence Michael
English Editor – Specialist
19 January 2024