H2 Energy Europe, renowned for its development of expansive green hydrogen ecosystems, has successfully secured government funding for its groundbreaking 20MW electrolytic hydrogen production facility at Milford Haven’s port—a pioneering initiative set to become South Wales’ inaugural endeavor of its kind.
The UK’s ambitious target aims to establish a robust capacity of up to 10GW in low-carbon hydrogen production by 2030, with half of this production envisioned to stem from electrolytic hydrogen, leveraging the expansion of offshore wind, renewables, and nuclear energy within the UK.
This milestone for H2 Energy Europe’s project aligns with the UK government’s Hydrogen Business Model and Net Zero Hydrogen Fund, solidifying their pivotal role in the country’s hydrogen transition. Anticipated to be formalized in January 2024, the funding agreement complements the already obtained planning permission, setting the stage for the Final Investment Decision (FID) in early 2024 and an operational launch by 2026.
Beyond simply enabling industrial users to pivot towards domestically sourced green hydrogen from renewable energy, this facility promises to create sustainable employment opportunities, redirecting the workforce toward specializing in green hydrogen handling and away from managing petroleum-based products.
Julian O’Connell, Project Director of H2 Energy Europe, expressed gratitude for the support from the UK government and Pembroke County Council, highlighting the keen interest from local industries as a driving force behind potential facility expansion.
The impact of the green hydrogen produced at Milford Haven is set to be far-reaching, powering shipping and industrial operations across South Wales. Moreover, it will serve as a versatile chemical feedstock, catering to various industries, including influential local companies like Sofidel, renowned for its tissue paper production globally.
Giuseppe Munari, Sofidel UK’s Country Operations Manager, emphasized the pivotal role of green hydrogen in their carbon emission reduction strategy, aligning with H2 Energy Europe’s forward-looking approach and acknowledging the fundamental support from the UK government.
Julien Rolland, CEO of H2 Energy Europe, conveyed gratitude for the UK Government’s announced support, hinting at the organization’s exploration of further hydrogen projects in the UK, including midstream services with their innovative hydrogen transport and storage container system to bolster the local hydrogen economy. The interest from local industries is already prompting considerations for facility expansion, signifying promising growth prospects.
