A MED-GEM Network feasibility study identifies the Bekaa’s industrial steam boilers as a practical starting point for renewable hydrogen and proposes SICOMO as the preferred site for a first demonstration. The study finds that renewable hydrogen could supply selected boilers, while modeled heat costs remain nearly six times higher than with heavy fuel oil.

Why start with industrial steam?

The study contacted 37 industrial facilities in the Bekaa corridor, received 29 usable responses and shortlisted 10 sites for further assessment. Facilities with high, steady heat demand emerged as the strongest candidates. SICOMO’s continuous steam needs make it a suitable site to test how hydrogen performs under real operating conditions.

The assessment found that the existing heavy fuel oil burners at the priority sites would need to be replaced with hydrogen-ready units. For supply, the study recommends a central renewable hydrogen production hub near Iaat and Baalbek, with compressed hydrogen delivered to industrial users by trailer.

What would a first pilot cost?

In the study’s reference scenario, renewable hydrogen cost an estimated USD 375 per megawatt-hour of thermal energy, based on modeled production and storage costs. The comparable figure for heavy fuel oil was USD 64. The indicative cost of adapting the SICOMO site was USD 350,000 to 600,000, excluding the production hub and wider supply infrastructure.

That cost gap shapes the study’s recommendation. A first pilot would need financial support and would give industry and public authorities local evidence on safe operation, supply reliability, actual operating costs and permitting.

From feasibility to pilot preparation

The study recommends a preparation phase to secure funding, confirm equipment and supply options, carry out detailed engineering and safety studies, and clarify the permitting process. It also calls for operator training and a monitoring plan so the results can inform decisions at other industrial sites in Lebanon.

The study was prepared by Dr. Yves Raymond Mansour and supervised by Dr. Mustapha Taoumi under the MED-GEM Network, funded by the European Union.

Read the full study · Feasibility Study on Hydrogen Burners in Lebanon