Ammar (CEO of Stealth Start-up) is a highly distinguished professional with a PhD in Geophysics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and a B.S. from the University of Houston. With over 15 years of experience in the energy sector, he has made significant contributions to industry giants such as Saudi Aramco and Virgin Hyperloop. His leadership was instrumental in the founding of Eden GeoPower in 2017, where he served as President until mid-2024, driving the company’s operations, international engagement, and expansion across multiple sectors, including Geothermal, Geological Hydrogen, Mining, and other energy sources. Later this year, he will be unveiling his new start-up, currently in Stealth Mode.
Throughout his career, Ammar has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise in leading local and international government affairs, shaping clean energy policies across the U.S. and the MENA region. His influence extends to high-profile forums and programs, including the NSF Convergence program, MiSK OSGEY forum, UN SDG program, and his prestigious inclusion in the Saudi2030 Leaders program run by the MiSK Foundation, underscoring his dedication to sustainable energy development.
Ammar’s thought leadership in geophysics and clean energy has earned him recognition in renowned outlets such as CNN, NewScientist Journal, Bloomberg, and Yahoo. His numerous awards and honors, including the MiSK Science Fellowship, Leslie & Alan Wong Award, Marathon & Halliburton Award, and membership in the MIT Solve Technical Committee, further highlight his impact on the field.
In addition to his academic achievements, Ammar has completed elite management programs like the Jada – Emerging Manager Program, mentored by Stanford Business School professor Robert Siegel. As a prolific co-author of numerous journal and conference publications and multiple USPTO patent applications, Ammar stands as a visionary leader and innovator, driving the global pursuit of sustainable energy solutions.
November 26, 2024 -
09h00 -
10h00
What is happening in Middle East? -
Toward the First Demonstration Site for Geological Hydrogen in Oman’s Samail Ophiolite
The exploration of sustainable hydrogen production is increasingly focused on geological hydrogen, particularly through stimulated processes, as a promising avenue. This paper discusses our initiative to establish the first test bed site for geological hydrogen production in Oman’s Samail Ophiolite. The Samail Ophiolite, an extensive formation of ultramafic rocks rich in Fe(II)-bearing minerals, presents an ideal geological setting for hydrogen generation through water-rock interactions. Geological hydrogen production exploits natural exothermic reactions between water and Fe(II)-bearing rocks, leading to hydrogen generation and the formation of Fe(III)-bearing minerals. This process, known as serpentinization, is especially effective in peridotites and gabbros, which are abundant in the Samail Ophiolite. Previous studies have documented significant hydrogen concentrations in groundwater and surface seeps within this formation, highlighting its potential for in-situ hydrogen generation. The project encompasses a multi-phase exploration study to evaluate and establish a pilot site for geological hydrogen production. The initial phase involves a comprehensive desktop study to assess existing geologic and hydrogeologic data, field mapping, and sample collection. This phase aims to identify and characterize prospective pilot sites based on their geological potential for hydrogen generation, considering factors such as the presence of ultramafic rocks with minimal metamorphic and alteration overprints and the geochemical suitability of groundwater. Following the desktop study, geologic surveying and coring will be conducted to collect detailed subsurface data, which will be analyzed for their petrophysical characteristics, mineralogy, and hydrogen generation potential. Hydrogeologic assessments will measure groundwater chemistry and dissolved gas composition to establish baseline conditions and identify suitable sites for water injection and hydrogen recovery. Environmental assessments will ensure sustainability and adherence to regulatory standards, evaluating potential impacts on air and water quality, biodiversity, and local communities. This initiative positions us at the forefront of global hydrogen exploration, with significant scientific and environmental implications for sustainable energy production.
