In a major step forward for the hydrogen industry in the UK, bp has announced that its ambitious HyGreen Teesside project has received shortlisting under the Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 (HAR1). This shortlisting comes on the heels of the UK Government’s announcement of targeted hydrogen projects primed to receive funding support.
HyGreen Teesside is part of the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero’s (DESNZ) first-round funding initiative for green hydrogen. With an initial focus on 80MW of green hydrogen production, the project aims to scale up to an impressive 500MW by 2030. This represents 5% of the Government’s 10GW hydrogen target. Operations are projected to commence in 2026.
HAR1’s mission is to fund up to 250MW of electrolytic hydrogen projects throughout the UK, with contracts likely to be awarded as soon as Q4 of 2023.
Matt Williamson, UK Head of Hydrogen at bp, underscored the transformative potential of the project, stating, “HyGreen Teesside has the potential to help transform energy use, the economy and skills in the region. At bp, we’re backing hydrogen to help Teesside and the UK decarbonise its industry and mobility.”
In a bid to foster collaboration and gain community insights, bp recently concluded a six-week community consultation. The dialogue with local residents, businesses, and stakeholders will guide the finalized planning application submitted to Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council.
The multi-phased project is poised to create a substantial impact on employment, generating an average of 660 jobs during construction, while creating and preserving over 100 jobs during operation. With its goal to become the UK’s ‘first major’ hydrogen transport hub, HyGreen Teesside is set to assist carbon-intensive sectors like chemical and process industries in the region to decarbonise.
Initially unveiled in 2021, bp’s HyGreen facility aims to position Teesside as the UK’s hydrogen transport hub, instigating decarbonisation in various sectors including heavy transport, airports, ports, and rail. The project’s progression marks a critical milestone in the UK’s hydrogen journey and solidifies bp’s commitment to leading the way in this crucial energy transition.
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