Scottish Renewables has warned that the UK Government must rapidly increase support for green hydrogen to unlock Scotland’s potential as a major global producer.
The industry body said in its Green Hydrogen Vision 2025 report that the UK Government and the National Energy System Operator must adopt key recommendations to secure the sector’s future.
The study added that green hydrogen produced by electrolysis powered entirely by renewable energy can strengthen UK energy resilience and deliver system-wide benefits.
Scottish Renewables said green hydrogen could provide the UK economy with an annual £25 billion boost and support more than 300,000 jobs by 2045.
Maggie Olson-Jow (pictured), 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 stated: “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 said: “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.”