The Scottish Government hydrogen policy statement will ensure support for a green recovery and transition to a net-zero economy.
Audrey MacIver, HIE’s director of energy and low carbon, said the Highlands and Islands is well placed to benefit from hydrogen production. She added:
“We have the natural resource required through onshore and offshore wind as well as wave and tidal.
“The development of a strong hydrogen economy could create economic benefits for businesses, communities and our workforce. Many businesses could also benefit from switching to hydrogen use for their production, which would contribute to the transition to a carbon neutral economy.
“We very much welcome publication of the Scottish Government’s hydrogen policy statement and look forward to working with businesses and stakeholders across the Highlands and Islands to explore exciting new opportunities likely to arise from this.”
The government’s ambition is for Scotland to become a leading hydrogen nation, generating 5GW of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen by 2030 – enough to power the equivalent of 1.8 million homes.
Economic impact research suggests the industry has the potential to be worth up to £25bn a year to the Scottish economy by 2045.
Hydrogen emits no carbon dioxide. It can be used as an alternative to natural gas to transfer and store energy and could replace fossil fuels in industrial processes, internal combustion engines and homes.
The full announcement is available on the Scottish Government website
Related Articles
Lochaber fabrication firm in further expansion
The improvements will enable the company to continue its growth through increased capacity and efficiencies in production.
Cairngorm Mountain chief executive to retire
CMSL board member Tim Hurst will become interim chief executive
Advanced technology will give Caithness firm a competitive edge
The new Leica scanner will enable Envision to offer a broader range of services to existing and new clients.
50 plus jobs supported by HIE in Caithness and Sutherland in 2023/24
As a result of HIE’s support, businesses in the area are set to see combined turnover rise by £22.4m, while international sales will grow by £661,000.
650+ jobs supported by HIE in Inner Moray Firth in 2023/24
There was support for businesses and social enterprises to lower emissions and improve efficiencies within their operations.
Argyll's new £8.1m building will strengthen marine industries
The project is expected to continue to attract innovative marine businesses, creating new well-paid job opportunities, particularly for young people, and encouraging entrepreneurship.
£1.3m investment approved by HIE in the Outer Hebrides 2023/24
As a result of HIE support, businesses in the area will see total turnover rise by £14.5m and international sales by £1.9m.
New director of area operations
Joanna Peteranna took up the role on 1 July.
New report highlights economic opportunities in reducing emissions
A new report published today (Tuesday 16 July) outlines significant economic opportunities associated with reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the Highlands and Islands.
£1.5m investment approved by HIE in Shetland in 2023-24
Figures show HIE approved £1.5m investment across 18 Shetland projects in 2023-24
Over 1,200 jobs supported by HIE in 2023/24
Figures compiled by HIE show that businesses and communities supported by the agency in 2023/24 are set to create or retain more than 1,200 jobs across the region.