New study reveals scale of North West hydrogen demand

A new study by the North West Hydrogen Alliance (NWHA) has found demand for hydrogen in the region could reach 2GW of production by 2030, rising to 7.5GW by 2050.

Initial demand for the low carbon fuel is expected to come from heavy industry and power generation, with heating buildings and transport to come later. The region’s demand is expected to meet around a fifth of the Government’s target for the whole of the UK.

The North-west recently saw planning permission granted for a major hydrogen production facility in Ellesmere Port, which will sit at the centre of the HyNet low carbon hydrogen cluster. Manchester Airport will be connected to the scheme via a direct pipeline, while major manufacturers in the region are also signed up to make use of the low carbon fuel when the facility goes live, making the North West the first UK region to develop a hydrogen market.

The NWHA study into hydrogen demand has been published as part of Hydrogen Week (26th February to 3rd March) that aims to raise awareness of how this alternative fuel can help industry reduce emissions and deliver green economy growth.

Helen Boyle, Head of Regional Development (North West and Midlands) at Cadent on behalf of the NWHA said:

“For the first time we have a complete understanding of the expected hydrogen demand in the region. The North West is set to become the UK’s home of hydrogen with industrial businesses already signed up to switch to this low carbon fuel and decarbonise their operations. Hydrogen can also revolutionise how we balance the energy system, travel around the country and heat our homes and businesses. This study comes as we celebrate the UK’s second national Hydrogen Week – which brings together stakeholders from across the UK to celebrate and promote the role of hydrogen in reaching net zero.”

Construction on ET Hydrogen’s production facility at Ellesmere Port is expected to commence later in 2024, and produce 1GW of hydrogen by the end of the decade.

The NWHA’s study North West Hydrogen Demand Side Study can be viewed here.