Scottish Renewables has called on the UK Government to accelerate policy support for green hydrogen, warning that failure to act risks undermining Scotland’s ability to become a major global producer.
In its Green Hydrogen Vision 2025 report, the industry body said the UK Government and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) must adopt a series of recommendations to secure the sector’s long-term viability. The study said green hydrogen produced through electrolysis powered solely by renewable energy could enhance UK energy security and deliver benefits across the wider energy system.
According to Scottish Renewables, a mature green hydrogen industry could add £25 billion a year to the UK economy and support more than 300,000 jobs by 2045.
Maggie Olson-Jow, policy manager for offshore and new technologies at Scottish Renewables, said: “Scottish Renewables has worked closely with its members and key stakeholders to set out the key recommendations and policy actions Scotland will need to establish a thriving green hydrogen sector.” She added: “For Scotland and the UK to become global leaders in this technology both governments must establish and grow demand for green hydrogen in sectors that have traditionally been difficult to decarbonise.”
Olson-Jow said targeted support will be essential to spur investment. “The UK Government must develop clear incentives for green hydrogen producers to build and operate projects in locations where there is a wealth of renewable energy generation, such as Scotland, to maximise benefits to the UK energy system,” she stated.
She added: “The UK and Scottish governments have both outlined their aspirations to be world leaders in the development of green hydrogen and they must now work closely with NESO to develop a clear pathway for it to be delivered at scale in Scotland.”
