Under an 18-month memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ARA Natural Resources, Hyterra will coordinate technical evaluations of prospective areas in the Sultanate, while assessing regulatory, commercial and permitting pathways.

Natural hydrogen, also known as white hydrogen, is formed by natural geological processes within the Earth’s crust, where it can accumulate and continue to be generated over time.

HyTerra said the Samail Ophiolite – a large, exposed section of oceanic crust and mantle – in the region has the potential to be a “world-class” geologic hydrogen province.

The company said the ophiolite consists of “ultramafic mantle rocks” that generate hydrogen through a process called serpentinization.

“We believe it represents one of the most compelling geological settings globally, and one where disciplined early evaluation can create real value,” said HyTerra CEO Riley Kemp.

Part-owned by mining major Fortescue, Hyterra has been conducting test drillings at a site in Kansas, US.

The announcement comes as Oman hopes to position itself as a major exporter of clean hydrogen, using its low-cost natural gas and renewable energy potential.

However, natural hydrogen remains nascent, with extraction technologies still undetermined. While proponents suggest existing oil and gas technologies and processes could be used, more research efforts are required.