GeoKiln and ONEIC sign a 12-month MoU to assess engineered geological hydrogen production in Oman using MSSH technology, with a potential pilot or commercial project subject to evaluation results.
US-based clean energy technology company GeoKiln Energy Innovation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Oman National Engineering & Investment Co. SAOG (ONEIC) to assess the potential for producing engineered geological hydrogen in Oman. The partnership will evaluate the deployment of GeoKiln’s proprietary Manufactured Subsurface Hydrogen (MSSH) technology at a jointly identified location, supporting efforts to explore alternative low-carbon hydrogen production methods.
Announced on November 11, 2026, the agreement establishes a 12-month evaluation period during which both companies will examine the site's geological characteristics, subsurface data, existing infrastructure, regulatory and permitting requirements, potential customers and preliminary project economics. The assessment will determine whether the location is suitable for further development and whether the technology can be commercially deployed in the country.
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GeoKiln's MSSH technology is designed to accelerate natural geological processes that generate hydrogen in iron-rich rock formations. The approach uses precision subsurface heating to stimulate chemical reactions between water and iron-bearing minerals, enabling hydrogen production underground. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods, which involve processes such as electrolysis or natural gas reforming, the technology seeks to generate hydrogen by stimulating existing geological reactions.
The company intends to use established drilling infrastructure and oil and gas industry supply chains to support deployment. This approach could reduce development costs and shorten implementation timelines compared with some conventional hydrogen production pathways. The technology is positioned as complementary to exploration for naturally occurring geological hydrogen.
Oman provides a relevant geological setting for evaluating the approach because of its iron-rich rock formations and extensive research into subsurface hydrogen generation. The country's geology, particularly the exposed ophiolite formations, has attracted scientific interest in the potential for naturally generated hydrogen. The proposed collaboration will assess whether these geological conditions can support controlled hydrogen production using GeoKiln's technology.
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Under the agreement, GeoKiln will contribute its MSSH technology, subsurface engineering workflows and operational expertise. ONEIC will bring more than four decades of experience in engineering, utilities and infrastructure development in Oman. Established in 1978, the Omani company has delivered projects involving energy infrastructure, high-voltage substations, transmission lines and water systems.
If the evaluation produces favourable results, the companies may consider developing a pilot or commercial-scale project. They will also examine an appropriate business structure for subsequent development, which could include a joint venture. However, the MoU does not represent a final investment decision or a commitment to construct a hydrogen production facility.