FERGANA—Air Products has finalized the acquisition of hydrogen production assets at the Fergana Refinery, marking a strategic expansion into Uzbekistan’s emerging hydrogen market, as detailed by Vice President Vaclav Harant in an exclusive interview with Trend News Agency.

According to Trend News Agency, Harant outlined the company’s vision to leverage its six decades of experience in hydrogen production and distribution to bolster Uzbekistan’s energy security and industrial gas industry. “The recent Fergana Refinery hydrogen asset acquisition supports our objective to improve energy security and sustainability. We will supply the refinery with reliable hydrogen and create a hydrogen merchant market to serve Uzbekistan’s economic and environmental goals, boosting its industrial gas industry,” Harant explained.

The acquisition, part of a $140 million deal with Uzbekistan’s private oil and gas company Saneg, is seen as a critical step in modernizing the refinery and expanding its production capabilities. Harant emphasized the dual focus on transferring knowledge and enhancing safety standards within the refinery operations. “Operational discipline, combined with safety-first protocols, will optimize hydrogen production processes, ensuring efficiency, reliability, and the wellbeing of our workforce,” he stated.

Air Products plans to implement a suite of comprehensive safety strategies, including rigorous training programs, regular safety audits, and the adoption of advanced safety technologies. These measures aim to mitigate risks and enhance overall operational performance, aligning with the company’s commitment to maintaining a secure working environment.

This strategic move is expected to pave the way for broader commercial utilization of hydrogen in Uzbekistan’s industrial production market, positioning the Fergana Refinery at the forefront of the country’s push towards modernization and increased energy sustainability.