WFW advises Fortescue on Omani green hydrogen project

Watson Farley & Williams (WFW) has advised global integrated green energy, metals and technology company Fortescue on its development of a cutting-edge green hydrogen project in Oman.

The potential project involves collaboration between Fortescue and its consortium partner, Actis, a leading global investor in sustainable infrastructure. Together, they have secured the rights to develop, build, own, and operate a state-of-the-art green hydrogen facility under the auspices of Hydrom Oman SPC, the hydrogen arm of Omani government owned Energy Development Oman (“EDO”).

Central to the project’s success will be the development of a renewable energy infrastructure, comprising a circa 4.5 GW wind and solar power plant. This infrastructure will provide the necessary energy to fuel electrolysers, with the capacity to produce up to 200,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually. Notably, the project is strategically positioned to meet both local demand and international export requirements, underscoring its significance as a driver of economic growth and environmental stewardship.

The cross-border WFW Energy team that advised Fortescue was led by Dubai Projects and Corporate partner Mhairi Main Garcia, working closely with London corporate partners Christina Howard and Sarah Williamson.

Garcia commented, “This groundbreaking project represents a significant milestone in Oman’s green hydrogen landscape. We are thrilled to have advised Fortescue on its partnership with Actis for this landmark project and support its vision for this transformative sector. It is a privilege to collaborate with forward-thinking clients like Fortescue. Green hydrogen is a key focus of the firm, and we look forward to working with Fortescue as the project develops”.

Clifford Chance advised Actis and Dentons acted as project counsel.