Wedoany.com Report-Apr. 12, The UK government has selected 27 green hydrogen projects for the next phase of its second Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR2), a major program to advance sustainable energy. This initiative focuses on reducing emissions, creating jobs in industrial areas, and fostering economic growth through the government’s Plan for Change. The hydrogen sector is poised to draw over £1 billion in private investment by 2029, building on £400 million already secured in places like Milford Haven, Wales, and High Marnham, Nottinghamshire, generating over 700 direct jobs in construction and operations.

The program supports thousands more positions, including roles for apprentices, graduates, engineers, welders, and skilled construction workers, revitalizing manufacturing regions. The shortlisted projects aim to decarbonize industries such as ammonia production, clean power generation, glass and brick manufacturing, and sustainable aviation fuel. Industry Minister Sarah Jones stated: “We are deploying hydrogen at a commercial scale for the first time – not just investing in a technology – but investing in British jobs, our proud manufacturing communities and our energy security. From distilleries and sustainable aviation fuel to public transport and clean energy generation, hydrogen can power our everyday life and unlock clean energy growth across the country as part of our Plan for Change.”

Following the first HAR, which provided £2 billion to 11 projects totaling 124 MW, HAR2 furthers the UK’s hydrogen goals. Hydrogen Energy Association CEO Emma Guthrie said: “This much-anticipated announcement brings vital clarity to the UK’s hydrogen sector, providing a crucial boost for projects that will drive forward the country’s low-carbon transition.” RenewableUK’s Barnaby Wharton added: “Green hydrogen produced using electricity from wind can be stored and used whenever it’s needed, even when the wind doesn’t blow and the sun doesn’t shine, helping the government to achieve its clean power mission.”

Among the shortlisted projects is SSE and Equinor’s Aldbrough Hydrogen Pathfinder in East Yorkshire, combining hydrogen production, storage, and power generation. SSE Thermal’s Finlay McCutcheon said: “Aldbrough Hydrogen Pathfinder will help to showcase how individual aspects of the value chain interact, while also providing much needed electricity to the grid – and is the only realistic opportunity to have a 100% hydrogen-fired power station on the system by 2030.” The Selms Muir Hydrogen hub in Scotland, developed by European Energy and Hygen, integrates hydrogen with solar power. Hygen’s Kevin Selleslags stated: “Today’s announcement recognises the importance both of this scheme and of the role hydrogen will play in our journey to net zero.”

Lhyfe’s projects in Wallsend, North Tyneside, and Kemsley, Kent, also earned spots. Lhyfe’s Boris Davis said: “We are delighted that our Wallsend and Kemsley projects have been shortlisted, given the fiercely competitive nature of the process. This demonstrates the government's confidence in Lhyfe’s ability to rapidly develop and operate high-capacity sites, and to meet the UK needs.” These steps reinforce the UK’s commitment to clean energy.