Environmental Audit Committee chairman Philip Dunne has written to Business Secretary Alok Sharma calling for the Government to implement a hydrogen strategy for the UK.
The committee heard during evidence sessions and in written correspondence that the “lack of a hydrogen strategy” is holding back the sector.
Evidence presented to the EAC showed it is clear that the UK has the expertise and the technology capabilities to scale up low-carbon hydrogen, but it lags behind other nations such as Australia, Japan and Canada which all have ambitious hydrogen strategies, as well as the recently launched EU initiative.
In his letter Dunne (pictured) said: “We must end our reliance on dirty fuels and hydrogen could be the key to realising our low-carbon potential.
“The UK’s strengths in innovation, technology and skills can be utilised to champion hydrogen as a major player in our energy mix – but the Government must pave the way.
“The Committee heard time and again during evidence that the UK’s lack of a Hydrogen Strategy by Government is holding back efforts to make scaling up hydrogen production a reality.
“The upcoming National Infrastructure Strategy due in the Autumn could be an excellent opportunity for the Government to bring forward a Hydrogen Strategy to underpin its commitment to a net zero Britain.”
The committee has requested a response from the Government by 2 September.
A hydrogen strategy could play a key role in supporting cost-effective decarbonisation of transport sectors such as aviation and shipping.
At present 95% of global hydrogen is derived from fossil fuel feedstocks, so more must be done to champion carbon capture and storage (CCS) to ensure hydrogen fully contributes to a low-carbon future, the EAC found.
It also said the UK has the potential with its world-leading offshore wind sector to champion green hydrogen, but there is also significant potential to decarbonise blue hydrogen created using fossil fuels.
Energy Networks Associated chief executive David Smith said: “We agree with the Committee’s view that using hydrogen is the best and most efficient way of decarbonising significant parts our economy.
“Shifting to a hydrogen economy is vital to hit our climate targets and drive forward green economic growth.
“Britain’s gas networks have been running hydrogen trials across the country and it is now time to build on our world-leading expertise and develop the UK’s own strategy. A UK strategy will help to maintain our global leadership position as well as deliver long-term benefits to homes and businesses across the country.”