The Offshore Wind Power Limited (OWPL) consortium is studying an industrial scale green hydrogen project on the Orkney islands as part of its ScotWind bid.
OWPL, formed by Macquarie’s Green Investment Group, TotalEnergies and Renewable Infrastructure Development Group (RIDG) has submitted a proposal to develop the N1 plan option area west of Orkney.
If successful, its proposal, called the West of Orkney Windfarm, could deliver renewable power to a green hydrogen production plant at the Flotta Terminal.
Plans to power the proposed Flotta Hydrogen Hub are being developed by OWPL in partnership with Flotta Terminal’s owner Repsol Sinopec, and Uniper.
The proposal is also supported locally by EMEC Hydrogen, which has been involved in early stage renewable hydrogen pilots on Orkney.
GIG Europe head Edward Northam said: “We believe that green hydrogen could provide a critical alternative route to market for some of Scotland’s largest offshore wind projects and play a significant role in creating wider economic benefits as the North Sea goes through its energy transition.”
James Stockan, leader of Orkney Islands Council, said Flotta is an ideal location for green hydrogen production.
“It is surrounded by the best wind resource in Europe, it lies close to major shipping routes within the vast natural harbour of Scapa Flow.
“The time is right to maximise the incredible natural assets and geography of the Flow and Orkney to ensure a long-term sustainable, climate-friendly future for our communities,” he said.