Why Hydrogen
Hydrogen and hydrogen related applications are an exciting emerging technology which could support the global shift towards decarbonisation and sustainable energy solutions. As the East of England positions itself as a leader in the hydrogen economy, understanding the pivotal role of hydrogen is crucial. Here are key reasons why hydrogen is a cornerstone of our decarbonised sustainable future:
Versatility
Hydrogen’s versatility is unmatched. It can be used across multiple sectors including agriculture, non-road machinery, transport, industry and power. This flexibility makes it a vital component in transitioning to a diverse and resilient low-carbon energy system.
Decarbonisation
Hydrogen offers a pathway to significantly reduce carbon emissions. When produced from renewable energy sources, hydrogen is virtually emissions-free. Renewable hydrogen adoption can accelerate the decarbonisation of sectors where the hydrogen molecule is essential and where direct electrification is challenging, such as heavy industry and shipping.
Energy Security
Investing in hydrogen can enhance energy security by diversifying energy sources and reducing dependence on imported fuels. Hydrogen is a complimentary energy vector that supports the many other technologies that will deliver against the global decarbonisation obligations. For the East of England, with its substantial renewable energy resources, hydrogen production presents an opportunity to harness local assets, creating a self-sustaining energy ecosystem.
Economic Opportunity
The development of a hydrogen economy and supporting the hydrogen value chain will stimulate economic growth and job creation. For the East of England, this translates to opportunities in hydrogen production, infrastructure development, storage and distribution alongside technology innovation, supporting local supply chains and fostering a skilled workforce.
Integration with Clean Energy
Hydrogen production through electrolysis offers a solution to the intermittency of renewable energy sources like wind and solar. Through scenarios where long-term storage capabilities are available, opportunities to utilise excess electricity can be harnessed to produce hydrogen, which can then be stored and converted back to electricity or used directly, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of the energy system.
Continuous large-scale power generation, such as nuclear, offers the opportunity to support significant production capacity and leverage clean heat and higher temperature electrolysis technologies.
Regional Strengths and Opportunities
The East of England, with its significant offshore wind capacity, emerging solar energy sector, nuclear power generation at Sizewell, and strategic infrastructure like the Bacton Gas Terminal, is uniquely positioned to lead in hydrogen. These regional strengths support the feasibility of large-scale hydrogen production and hydrogen derivative processing, paving the way for the East of England to become a sustainable alternative fuel hub.
Hydrogen is not just an energy carrier but a potential catalyst for major change. Its adoption can drive the East of England towards a decarbonised, sustainable, economically vibrant future, setting a benchmark for hydrogen related developments globally.