The UK government has announced more than £500 million in funding for hydrogen infrastructure projects aimed at supporting clean energy development and job creation across Merseyside, Teesside and the Humber.
The investment forms part of the government’s broader “Plan for Change” strategy, which seeks to strengthen energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Officials say the funding will go toward establishing the country’s first regional hydrogen transport and storage network, connecting hydrogen producers with industrial users and power stations.
“This investment will deliver jobs and energy security for Britain,” said Energy Secretary Ed Miliband. “It will bring in the investment needed across the country to deliver our Plan for Change.”
According to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, the infrastructure is expected to play a key role in decarbonising energy-intensive sectors such as steel, chemicals, and heavy transport, and support long-term energy storage to manage demand fluctuations.
The announcement builds on previous government initiatives, including £2 billion allocated through the Hydrogen Allocation Rounds (HAR), which selected 11 low-carbon hydrogen production projects for support under the first round.
Industry groups welcomed the move. Brett Ryan, Head of Policy at Hydrogen UK, described the networks as “essential for a secure and resilient hydrogen sector.” Dr. Emma Guthrie, CEO of the Hydrogen Energy Association, added that the plan could “galvanise the UK’s regional hydrogen hubs” and promote the “creation of skilled jobs in places such as Merseyside, Teesside and the Humber.”
The UK hydrogen sector has already attracted around £400 million in private investment, with developments underway in locations including Milford Haven and High Marnham.
The funding announcement also coincides with broader clean energy initiatives, as the government confirmed continued support for nuclear energy, fusion research, and carbon capture projects, including the Acorn and Viking developments.
