On September 17, 2024, Beirut hosted the inaugural Green Hydrogen Hackathon Lebanon, where two finalist projects were selected. Co-organized by the Lebanese Center for Energy Conservation (LCEC) and the MED-GEM Network, funded by the EU, with support from the Ministry of Energy and Water and the EU Neighbours South program, this event brought together engineering students to design a green hydrogen valley in the Beqaa region. At that time, we could not have imagined the geopolitical situation would evolve, leading to the postponement of numerous events and deep sadness. However, in response to the requests from our candidates and in solidarity with our Lebanese colleagues, the MED-GEM Network chose to maintain the Hackathon final, scheduled to take place in a hybrid format on October 24. This initiative embodies hope and our commitment to our partners, emphasizing the importance of innovation and collaboration in challenging times.

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The #GH2HackathonLebanon is part of the "Green Hydrogen Camp: From Theory to Action" program established by the MED-GEM Network, funded by the European Union, aimed at raising awareness and strengthening students' capacities regarding the issues and opportunities presented by green hydrogen and renewable energy in the Mediterranean. In Lebanon, four teams were selected, each consisting of two members ensuring gender parity, highlighting the importance of inclusion in technological innovation.

Hackathon theme and finalist projects

Throughout August, candidates underwent in-depth training developed by the International Power-to-X Hub, by GIZ, focusing on advanced Power-to-X technologies. Teams worked intensively to create deliverables that included a master plan, a use case and a roadmap. The projects were designed to address Lebanon's energy challenges, integrating innovative solutions for local green hydrogen production, diversifying the country’s energy mix, and enhancing energy security. The finalist projects, the "Lebanon Hydrogen Valley" team formed by Mariam El Jamal and Rodger Akiki, and the "Hydrogen Baladi" team composed of Rayan Al Sarih and Omar Allahham, received an additional mentoring to refine their solutions.

Four weeks of incubation and mentoring

Indeed, the two finalist teams benefited from four weeks of mentorship from MED-GEM Network experts, including Frank Wouters (Director), Dr. Mustapha Taoumi (Senior Expert), and Raya Verniers (Communications Expert), as well as notable Lebanese figures such as Dr. Joseph Al Assad, Dr. Sorina Mortada, and Hadi Abou Moussa, who provided invaluable advice on the feasibility and integration of solutions in the agricultural and industrial sectors along with the regulatory framework needed.

A distinguished jury and a study trip for the winners

During the final on October 24, 2024, (time to be confirmed), a panel of experts, including Frank Wouters, Pierre El Khoury (LCEC), Ali Berro, Ibrahim Mallah (ALI), and Stefano Panighetti (DUE Lebanon), will announce the winning team. The winners will receive a study trip to FAU Erlangen-Nürnberg in Germany and the opportunity to join the Moroccan winning team « GaFurNu »,  allowing them to deepen their knowledge in green hydrogen. The event, organized in a hybrid format, will enable participants to connect online or attend in person at the GIZ office in Lebanon. The projects will be evaluated based on criteria such as technical feasibility, economic viability, and environmental and social impacts.

Sustainable impact

Through the initiatives of the #GH2Camp and #GH2Hackathon, successfully implemented in Morocco, Lebanon, and soon in Egypt and Tunisia in 2025, the MED-GEM Network aims to create a dynamic network of talent in the Mediterranean. The goal is to cultivate young professionals who will play a key role in the sustainable development of the green hydrogen sector, both in the Mediterranean and globally.