In a world where energy supply chains are increasingly under threat from geopolitical tensions, a new study offers a practical roadmap for establishing and operating global energy hubs (GEHs). Published in the open-access journal SAGE Open, the research led by Mahmoud A. Hammad from the Faculty of Logistics at the University of Maribor in Slovenia, identifies critical success factors for these hubs, which could significantly impact maritime sectors.
The study, which combines in-depth interviews with key stakeholders and survey data from 53 oil and gas companies, highlights several key requirements for the effective establishment and operation of GEHs. These include geographical location, infrastructure readiness, environmental stability, geopolitical positioning, and stakeholder collaboration. “The successful establishment and operation of these EHs is difficult and calls for several requirements,” Hammad notes, emphasizing the complexity of the task.
For maritime professionals, the implications are substantial. GEHs offer a practical solution that facilitates energy import, conversion, storage, and export, thereby improving energy trade and exchange between producing and consuming countries. This could lead to increased demand for maritime transport services, as well as opportunities for port development and infrastructure investment.
Moreover, the study provides a strategic roadmap for nations looking to develop GEHs, which could open up new markets and trade routes for maritime sectors. “The research findings would support the sustainability and resilience of energy supply chains,” Hammad states, suggesting that GEHs could contribute to a more stable and secure energy landscape.
The study also encourages future research to assess energy hub performance under different geographies and markets, which could further enhance adaptability and efficiency in maritime operations. As the energy landscape continues to evolve, the establishment of GEHs could play a crucial role in shaping the future of maritime sectors, offering both challenges and opportunities for professionals in the field.