UK’s competitive edge could turn it in to a leading hydrogen player
A new report suggests the UK is well placed to become a major hydrogen trading hub in Europe in the coming years.
The report, produced by the Import and Export Taskforce at trade association Hydrogen UK, outlines how the UK’s natural advantages in offshore wind power and underground storage infrastructure could allow it to not only meet domestic demand but export low carbon hydrogen overseas.
It highlights the competitive edge Britain has with its ports, pipelines and interconnectors to continental Europe. If these facilities are repurposed to transport hydrogen, the report says the UK could establish itself as a significant energy trading partner for countries seeking to reduce emissions. This move will not only unlock job opportunities and promote clean growth, but also provide grid flexibility and enhance the energy security of the UK and wider Europe.
However it warns there is no time to lose if the UK wants to gain a first mover advantage over other would-be exporters like Germany and Scandinavian nations who already have dedicated hydrogen strategies.
The taskforce is calling on the government to set out a clearer vision for how Britain’s hydrogen trade will grow over the next decade, to encourage the major investment needed in production facilities and distribution networks.
It also says initial imports and exports are needed to stimulate infrastructure spending, and recommends collaborating closely with EU partners on certification standards and regulations to facilitate cross border trade. Further, the government should support ports, terminals and pipeline infrastructure developers in conducting feasibility studies and preparing for the Net Zero transition.
Commenting on the report Clare Jackson, CEO of Hydrogen UK, says:
“Our aim in developing this report is to enable the UK to become a world leader in the application and service of hydrogen, to deliver excellence throughout the supply chain and create a globally attractive import and export market. By leveraging the UK’s world-class offshore wind generation and geological storage, we have the potential to become a leading European hydrogen hub and reap all the associated economic benefits.”
