Net zero asset manager HYCAP Group expands to UAE

New GCC Fund to accelerate clean hydrogen economy amid regional push for decarbonisation

HYCAP Group, the UK-based net zero asset management company with clean hydrogen at its core, has opened an office in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) to support its strategic expansion to the region. At a private event during Abu Dhabi Finance Week, HYCAP Group also revealed plans for a UAE-based GCC Fund that will invest in companies serving the net zero energy transition and clean hydrogen supply chain.

As GCC governments race to decarbonize their economies, clean hydrogen is emerging as a central pillar in their climate mitigation efforts. Recognising the essential role that green hydrogen, sourced from renewable energy, can play in attaining net zero goals, HYCAP Group is committed to accelerating the adoption of the carbon-free fuel in high-emitting sectors.

Both the UAE and Saudi Arabia are laying robust foundations for leading the global hydrogen market. The UAE’s National Hydrogen Strategy aims to make it a top 10 producer of green hydrogen by 2031 with an output target of 1.4 million tonnes per year. Similarly, Saudi Arabia’s National Hydrogen Strategy is targeting over $36 billion in investments by 2030, and includes the construction of the world’s largest green hydrogen plant in NEOM.

HYCAP CEO James Munce, Karim Salah, Executive Director of Industrial Development bureau Eng. Arafat Saleh A. Al Yafei, HYCAP Chairman Jo Bamford, Ali Al Hammami, Empowerment Department Director Nabil Saleh, Head of GCC HYCAP Group Christian Tabet, HYCAP Head of Investor Relations Toby Fenwicke Clennell

HYCAP Group’s entry into the region is not just timely but critical. With green hydrogen currently representing a small fraction of total hydrogen production, there’s a pressing need for substantial investments in renewable infrastructure and innovative solutions for hydrogen transport and storage.

Commenting on HYCAP Group’s expansion to the UAE, Arvind Ramamurthy, Chief Market Development Officer, ADGM said: “HYCAP Group’s entry into Abu Dhabi Global Market underscores the capital’s position as a leading centre for climate finance. As we navigate this era of transformation, sustainable development remains at the heart of Abu Dhabi’s economic strategy. Our commitment to integrating clean energy solutions, particularly through the expansion of our low-carbon and green hydrogen capabilities, is unwavering. Initiatives like HYCAP Group’s investment platform are crucial for enhancing Abu Dhabi’s strategic position in the hydrogen sector and setting us on a clear path to become a top global producer.”

Replicating the success of its first UK Fund, HYCAP Group’s investment approach is focused on matching hydrogen supply with emerging demand to foster rapid market growth. Investing across the hydrogen value chain, HYCAP portfolio companies include: Wrightbus which manufactures EV and Hydrogen Buses; Ryze which transports and distributes green hydrogen; Hygen, a hydrogen production facility; Liquid Wind, a green electrofuel development company; and Yamna, a global green hydrogen platform.

Pictured (right to left) Mr. Jo Bamford, Chairman HYCAP Group with Eng. Arafat Saleh A. Al Yafei, Executive Director of Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development

Jo Bamford, Chairman and Founding Partner of HYCAP Group, said, “Our venture into the UAE is a strategic decision to place HYCAP Group at the nexus of the world’s emerging green hydrogen hubs. Under its visionary leadership, the UAE is spearheading the worldwide push towards clean and renewable energy. We are committed to supporting these initiatives by catalysing the hydrogen market. This includes establishing manufacturing clusters that can foster the necessary innovation, collaboration and demand needed for sustainable industrial growth.”

James Munce, CEO of HYCAP Group, added, “Green hydrogen’s potential as a key enabler in decarbonising sectors like transportation and heavy industry is immense. Our demand-first investment strategy is pivotal for unlocking the hydrogen value chain, paving the way for a sustainable and economically viable hydrogen economy.”

With its eyes set on creating integrated hydrogen economies across the GCC, HYCAP Group is poised to make significant contributions to the region’s transition to a cleaner, greener future. More than just geographical growth, HYCAP says its expansion to the region underscores a commitment to shaping a sustainable world by harnessing the power of clean hydrogen.

To learn more about HYCAP, click here.