The MED-GEM Network 6th Steering Committee convened in Abu Dhabi at a pivotal moment for the Mediterranean and GCC energy transition. As renewable deployment accelerates, costs reach historic lows, and green hydrogen moves from vision to market reality, one message resonated throughout the discussions: delivery now depends on bankability, infrastructure and regulatory clarity. Bringing together project leadership and national representatives from across the Southern and Eastern Mediterranean, the meeting provided both a regional snapshot and a forward-looking roadmap for 2026

Green hydrogen featured prominently in the discussions, not as a future promise, but as a sector undergoing rationalisation. While project pipelines continue to grow, only a limited number of projects have reached financial close or construction. The gap between announced ambition and bankable delivery remains significant.

Steering Committee members converged on three critical enablers:

1. Credible off-take pathways, supported by predictable regulation
2. Common-user infrastructure, reducing costs and risk for first movers
3. Bankability frameworks, addressing cost of capital disparities across the region

Without these elements, hydrogen risks remaining locked in feasibility studies. With them, it becomes an investable market.

The country tour de table confirmed strong momentum across the region, albeit with differentiated starting points. Jordan outlined ambitious renewable and storage plans, coupled with regulatory reforms enabling hydrogen investment and common infrastructure development. Palestine highlighted rapid solar deployment, growing integration of storage and the strategic role of MED-GEM in introducing hydrogen into national policy and academic ecosystems. Egypt reported accelerated renewable targets, grid-driven battery integration and continued market reform. Morocco stressed the urgency of CBAM readiness and certification of origin systems as a condition for future trade. Lebanon marked a major governance milestone with the appointment of an independent electricity regulator and advanced work on decentralised hydrogen for industrial heat. Tunisia showcased fast-moving renewable deployment, pilot battery projects and growing interest in export-oriented interconnections. Despite national differences, common priorities emerged: certification, storage, grid readiness, and access to finance.