Scotland's first hydrogen sector export plan, outlining the
targeted actions needed to secure Scotland as a key producer and
exporter of renewable hydrogen by 2030, has been published.
A Trading Nation: Realising Scotland's Hydrogen
Potential – A Plan for Exports, outlines where the
opportunities for growth lie for businesses and investors, if
Scotland is to capitalise on the economic and net zero
opportunities provided by hydrogen and hydrogen products.
These include:
- evidencing the growing market demand across the UK and Europe
for hydrogen and hydrogen products – to help attract investment
in the production, transport and storage of hydrogen
- developing Scotland's domestic support chain, capabilities
and skills – through regional hydrogen hubs and filling the gaps
in hydrogen production, transport and storage
- improving the infrastructure and systems around exporting
hydrogen, including creating hydrogen storage facilities,
aligning hydrogen regulation in Scotland with existing EU rules
and exploring the viability of hydrogen pipelines from Scotland
to mainland Europe and Ireland
- working with current and potential hydrogen exporters to
develop the international supply chain
Evidence suggests that Scotland could potentially deliver up to
3.3 million tonnes of green hydrogen per year by 2045, the energy
equivalent of around 90% of Scotland's total current energy
demand.
The report follows the publication of a recent report by PwC
which found that 3.3% of all jobs advertised in the UK over the
past year were green, up from 2.3% in 2023 - the equivalent of
23,000 jobs in Scotland.
The export plan complements actions in the Green Industrial
Strategy and the Hydrogen Action Plan to develop this new, growth
energy sector.
Acting Energy Secretary unveiled the Plan during a
visit to Hydrasun – a Scottish based company which designs, makes
and installs hydrogen refuellers and associated parts.
Ms Martin said: “Hydrogen is one of Scotland's greatest
industrial opportunities since oil and gas was
discovered and we have the environment, skills, knowledge,
and experience to become a driving force behind the growth of the
hydrogen sector in Europe and beyond.
“This plan focusses on the significant international trade
opportunities presented by hydrogen and sets out the key steps
required to secure and maximise the economic benefits.
“It provides the government, industry and investors with clarity
in the direction we must all move in, with pace, if Scotland is
to build a sustainable and successful hydrogen economy – whilst
helping to deliver a just transition for our energy sector
“Although the full economic potential of hydrogen is yet to be
realised, Hydrasun is a great example of how Scottish businesses
are already leading the way in the hydrogen sector.”
Dr Stuart Mitchell, Hydrogen Director said “Hydrasun, a D2Zero
Company, welcomes the Hydrogen Sector Export Plan, reinforcing
Scotland's leadership in the hydrogen economy and strengthening
our ability to grow both domestically and internationally.”
“We have a strong track record as an exporter, delivering
hydrogen systems across Europe and Scandinavia. Our expanding
footprint demonstrates the growing demand for Scottish hydrogen
expertise overseas. Scotland's proximity to key markets like
Germany and the Netherlands provides the opportunity to be at the
forefront of hydrogen exports.”
“Continued support from the Scottish Government, through agencies
like Scottish Enterprise, has enabled Hydrasun to accelerate its
growth, expand into new markets, and deliver innovative
solutions.”
“Collaboration across industry sectors, governments, and
communities is essential to fully realise hydrogen's potential.
Together, we can position Scotland as a global leader in hydrogen
innovation and sustainability.”
Background
Read A Trading Nation: Realising
Scotland's Hydrogen Potential - A Plan for Exports
Hydrogen Action Plan
(www.gov.scot)
Green Industrial Strategy Green industrial strategy
- gov.scot (www.gov.scot)
