The age of hydrogen

Countries around the world are now beginning to recognise the need for clean energy, as reliance on fossil fuels becomes increasingly risky. Against this backdrop, hydrogen power is a particularly effective way to generate clean energy.

In the UK, innovation in the field of hydrogen power continues. Earlier this year, the UK Business and Energy Secretary set out the country’s first-ever ‘Hydrogen Strategy’. The aim is to drive forward commitments laid out in the Prime Minister’s ‘Ten Point Plan’ for a green industrial revolution.

In recent months it has become clear that hydrogen power, much like solar and wind, will revolutionise the UK energy market. Government analysis suggests that 20-35% of the UK’s energy consumption is likely to be hydrogen-based by 2050. This strategy could be crucial for the UK, as the country works towards net zero targets.

So, how will the UK’s ‘Hydrogen Strategy’ impact the UK and its businesses?

How is hydrogen power being implemented in the UK?

As the UK strives towards its 2050 net zero targets, it plans to cut 78% of carbon emissions by 2035. To achieve this, the country must work on reducing waste, increasing efficiency and switching to sustainable power sources – such as hydrogen.

Hydrogen power could also assist with plans to decarbonise. Earlier this year, London mayor Sadiq Khan introduced the first double-decker hydrogen bus fleet in London. The buses joined over 500 electric buses in the UK as part of the Go-Ahead London fleet, continuing London’s acceleration towards the goal of zero emissions by 2030. Steps like these ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of environmental progress.

The creation of secure, good quality green jobs should help to unlock local economic growth across the country. This strategy aims to create 9,000 green jobs and unlock £4 billion worth of investments by 2030. Hydrogen could play an important role in decarbonising energy intensive industries, including transport.

The impact of hydrogen power on business

Businesses around the world are working towards sustainable targets, whether that be their own science-based targets or adhering to government regulations. For this reason, businesses should ensure that their processes incorporate green energy and sustainable practices.

The strategy intends to accelerate the use of hydrogen within four key industry sectors:

• Power
• Industry
• Transport
• Building

Businesses operating within these sectors could receive funding from the government. This finance will be used to develop technology and support businesses, as they make the transition to hydrogen power. Aside from these sectors, hydrogen will help to reduce carbon in heating systems, heavy machinery and even cement.

Embracing new and innovative energy sources also provides businesses with a chance to get ahead of the curve. Switching to renewables could save time, reduce emissions and boost efficiency. This could also mean developing at a faster rate than competitors. Boosting your green credentials, this green innovation could also open up your business to a broader and more sustainably-aware client base.

Where does EIC come in?

The government must now seize the initiative and provide the necessary funding and support to make hydrogen happen. Firms looking to adopt a long-term view of their energy and heat usage could certainly benefit from our services.

EIC’s combined heat and power solution have saved businesses up to 40% on energy costs. EIC’s carbon management team are also on hand to help deliver a comprehensive net-zero strategy for your business. We are focused on helping our clients to take their first step towards their sustainability targets. Our vast range of comprehensive services help businesses to better understand their energy consumption, carbon reduction measures and greener procurement options.

Get in touch today to find out how EIC can help you understand the benefits of switching to renewable energy.