Thought piece by Professor Paul Dodds,
Professor of Energy Systems, UCL Energy Institute.
There has been much interest in the climate and energy policies of the new Labour Government since it was elected on 4 July. Prior to the election, the Conservative and Labour parties agreed on a number of areas including building new nuclear power stations, offshore wind and the importance of hydrogen.
A key difference, though, was their vision for the speed of low-carbon transition. In September 2023, the Conservative Government slowed down the transition by, for example, delaying the date at which petrol and diesel cars would be phased out to 2035. Labour, in contrast, pledged to decarbonise the electricity system by 2030 and bring the phase-out date for cars back to 2030.
Labour’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission focuses on cutting energy bills and creating jobs. It includes a pledge to fund green hydrogen manufacturing with up to £500m over the new parliament. A National Wealth Fund is being created whose investments could include hydrogen, and GB Energy will be an owner and investor whose tasks will include project development, project investment and supply chains. The GB Energy Bill is scheduled to have its Second Reading in Parliament in September 2024 so it is clearly a priority.
Hydrogen is not a short-term priority for the new Government
The principal short-term priority for the new government appears to be clean power by 2030. The next offshore wind auction has already been increased to £1.5bn. There is a question about whether the Government will commit to a regular pipeline of support in the longer term that gives investors the confidence to invest in new UK factories to deliver wind turbines and other technologies.
Labour’s longer-term thoughts on net zero focus on nature, clean air, decarbonising transport and leveraging finance. It’s not clear that there will be a substantial focus on hydrogen over this parliament. Ed Miliband is the new Secretary of State for DESNZ, having held the same position for DECC in 2008–2010 when that Government was strongly in favour of electrification to reduce emissions. Sarah Jones is the new Minister of State with responsibility for hydrogen. The Prime Minister and particularly the new Chancellor of the Exchequer were very positive about hydrogen investments prior to the election.
Big questions remain about the strategy to decarbonise heat
While Labour is committed to using heat pumps to decarbonise heating in homes, Ed Miliband said prior to the election that a Labour Government would not force homeowners to rip out their gas boilers. Yet last year Lord Callanan, the previous Minister of State with responsibility for hydrogen, said “the idea that we could produce enough hydrogen at reasonable cost to displace mains gas is pretty much impossible”. So what is the strategy?
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) warned last summer that policymakers need to stop “avoiding big, impactful decisions and actions” to decarbonise heat. The decision on whether to use hydrogen for heating due in 2026 but the village pilot studies were abandoned by the previous government. The new Government will have come to a decision on its next steps for this challenging area sooner rather than later.
The Hydrogen Innovation Showcase was a two-day event, at the Pendulum Hotel and Conference Centre in Manchester 2-3 July. Welcoming industry leaders, innovators, and researchers to explore ground-breaking projects across the UK hydrogen landscape, offering a fantastic opportunity for the industry to meet and discuss the future of hydrogen.
Co-hosts included HI-ACT, UK-HyRES, Innovate UK, and the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative. Focussing on projects across the UK hydrogen landscape, it included:
Exploring the innovation taking place across the hydrogen landscape
Learning about the interesting and unique projects from exhibitors and speakers
Understanding more about the key research developments and funding opportunities underpinning the hydrogen economy
Enabling and accelerating meaningful partnerships and collaborations with others in the space
Marcus Walls-Bruck, Head of Hydrogen Technologies at the National Composites Centre, presented at the Hydrogen Innovation Showcase, highlighting the innovative projects taking place across the UK in hydrogen, featuring key players in the hydrogen landscape.
From HI-ACT, we were delighted to have our Co-Investigator Professor Tapas Mallick present on the first year of HI-ACT research outputs as well as taking part in the panel session on ‘where are we and where are we going’. The HI-ACT team were pleased to showcase how we are actively helping to accelerate research into systems integration of hydrogen for the future net-zero energy transition.
From UK-HyRES, we were pleased to have our team actively engaged throughout the event. We played a vital role in showcasing the latest advancements in hydrogen technology and contributed to key discussions, furthering our commitment to driving innovation within the hydrogen sector.
The event also included a talk by Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK, Technical Director on Hydrogen’s role in decarbonisation, discussing their longevity of the market, and included work on Hydrogen fuel cells they have been undertaking for the last 30 years. It is safe to say The Hydrogen Innovation Showcase was a huge success with many insightful talks, rapid-fire pitches from innovative SMEs, engrossing panel discussions and last but by no means least our hubs’ research.
Thank you to all who contributed to this successful event, it was an inspiring experience, and wonderful to see such valuable positivity in the room.
Professor Rachael Rothman, Co-Director at UK-HyRES, together with Dr Alex Newman and Dr Josh Kassongo, represented both the UK-HyRES cross-cutting Environmental theme (CT2) and the South Yorkshire Sustainability Centre (SYSC) at the Hydrogen Innovation Showcase held on the 2nd and 3rd July 2024 in the city of Manchester, UK.
The formal scientific proceedings started with a Research and Innovation Exhibition where in-person delegates could meander along various posters on display aimed to capture targeted research activities across the technical and cross-cutting themes of UK-HyRES.
A section highlight of the Showcase was the 3-Minute Rapid Fire Pitch Presentations where various key players along the hydrogen value chain presented comprehensive ongoing innovative solutions in their focus areas. This segment of the Showcase captured the essence, the ‘pulse’ as it were, of the hydrogen-based economy by presenting pertinent strategies and approaches currently deployed in the UK and internationally in response to critical research questions on hydrogen production and utilisation.
The Keynote address entitled “Hydrogen’s Role in Decarbonisation” by Mairi Gordon from Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK presented the global progressive work undertaken to reduce industrial emissions at Toyota. Mairi acknowledged the crucial enabling role assumed by the government to stimulate the decarbonisation effort. On the debate of hydrogen vehicles Vs electric vehicles, Mairi advocated the need for an array of mobility powertrains fuelled by various energy sources, including hydrogen. The mindset driving research at Toyota is to provide consumers with the power of choice among suitable alternatives, assured Mairi.
There were three parallel sessions, namely Make It, Move It, and Use It, each tackling specific known issues regarding production, storage and distribution and end use of hydrogen. In the Use It Parallel session, Prof Rothman presented South Yorkshire’s (SY) illustrious heritage of foundation industries such as steelworks, cement and ceramics. Preliminary work identified nodes of CO2 emissions and potential industrial hydrogen demand in SY with corresponding potential hydrogen production via either electrolysis or gasification.
Additionally, work carried out in the context of the SY energy system established that ambitions for green hydrogen production may be hampered by rising electricity costs generated from overloading. To address this challenge, various electrolyser configurations need to be evaluated for geographical suitability and economic fitness. Also, engagement between academia and the SY industry is essential to guide the formulation of region-specific decarbonisation solutions hinged on hydrogen production and integration into industrial processes. Prof Rothman reaffirmed the significant potential for hydrogen in the industrial deffossilisation in Sheffield and in SY at large.
The Showcase ended on a high note with Prof Tim Mays, UK-HyRES Hub Director, who thanked the various teams working on the basic research underpinning the delivery of the UK Hydrogen Strategy. While tactfully cautioning against an “evangelistic” attitude when engaging in novel research, Prof Mays underscored the need for tempered expectations and an open mind in exploring the boundaries of ground-breaking hydrogen research.
We’re thrilled to announce that UK-HyRES has been named a finalist at EntreConf and EntreConf Awards in both the Sustainability and Science categories!
It’s a tremendous honor to receive this recognition, and we can’t wait for the awards ceremony this September.
Stay tuned for updates as we get closer to the big day!
The University of Bath seeks an expert in hydrogen research. If you have a PhD or equivalent experience, a strong publication record, and are recognised in your field, this could be your next career move! Collaborate with top facilities and networks, including IAAPS, to advance your research.
Deadline for applications is the 4th of August!!!
Click here to Learn more and apply: https://bit.ly/4bBS4Na
The Hydrogen Innovation Showcase, co-hosted by Innovate UK, HI-ACT, and the Hydrogen Innovation Initiative, took place at the Pendulum Hotel & Conference Centre in Manchester on July 2-3.
Over the course of these two days, the event welcomed industry leaders, innovators, and researchers who explored groundbreaking projects within the UK’s hydrogen landscape. Attendees were treated to a range of engaging activities, including a fascinating plenary session by Toyota Motor Manufacturing UK, a series of insightful talks, rapid-fire pitches from innovative SMEs, and engrossing panel discussions. Additionally, the event highlighted significant research from various hubs.
The showcase provided a valuable opportunity for networking, allowing participants to connect with new faces and reconnect with familiar ones. The palpable enthusiasm in the room underscored the promising future of hydrogen technology.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to all contributors, attendees, and organizers for making this event a resounding success. It was truly an inspiring experience for everyone involved.
The Supergen Energy Networks Impact Hub, together with the Hydrogen Integration for Accelerated Energy Transitions Hub (HI-ACT) and the UK Hub for Research Challenges in Hydrogen and Alternative Liquid Fuels (UK-HyRES), is planning to organise a set of in-person and online activities for ECRs in the areas of net zero energy transitions, to better support your development.
Over the following anonymous survey, we have devised a few questions to help us ascertain the suitability of these activities for your needs and to identify the most popular ones if possible. Your responses will help us devise/revise our future events. We are grateful for your valuable input!
Please access our survey via https://forms.office.com/e/qcsf4uQwwf (expiry date: 31/07/2024).
Everyone at UK-HyRES is incredibly proud to announce that Prof John Irvine has been named on the King’s Birthday Honours List. Prof Irvine has been awarded a CBE for services to the green economy, for his leading contributions and research.
On achieving this award, Prof Irvine said:
“I was honoured to receive a CBE in the King’s Birthday Honours List this year for my contribution to the Green Economy. The research we carry out as part of the HyRES Hub is pivotal in our pursuit of a green economy, providing a network of experts to tackle the challenges we face in reaching Net Zero. I am proud to have been recognised as a leader in my field. It gives the hub significant impetus to deliver maximum impact.
This recognition underscores the critical work being done at UK-HyRES and strengthens our resolve to drive forward innovative solutions for a sustainable future”.
Congratulations, Prof Irvine!
UK-HyRES Co Director and alternative liquid fuels leader Prof Shanwen Tao, will be speaking at the Hydrogen in UK Transportation – From Potential to Reality Workshop at the University of Warwick.
The UK Hydrogen Strategy, developed by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, is integral to the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and meeting the Sixth Carbon Budget by 2035. The strategy sets an ambitious target to scale up low-carbon hydrogen production to 10 GW by 2030.
For the UK to achieve net zero by 2050, surface transport must transition from fossil fuels to sustainable electricity, hydrogen, and other renewable sources. The UK Transport Vision 2050 highlights that this significant transition will primarily occur between 2030 and 2050. By 2050, electric propulsion is anticipated to become the dominant mode, necessitating extensive battery production and resources. Hydrogen is poised to power about 20% of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), buses, and coaches, and contribute to 5% of air and 3% of maritime transport. Ammonia and methanol are also projected to become major fuels for 24% and 44% of maritime transport, respectively, further increasing hydrogen demand.
The UK Hydrogen Strategy projects a demand for up to 6 TWh of low-carbon hydrogen in the transport sector by 2030. By 2050, the UK Transport Vision 2050 estimates the hydrogen requirement for transport will be around 69 TWh, including the demand for ammonia and methanol in maritime applications.
Key Discussion Points to Explore:
- What are the main technical and regulatory challenges in expanding the UK’s hydrogen production and storage capabilities?
- How can existing infrastructure in the UK be utilised to expedite the rollout of hydrogen technologies?
- What tailored strategies would you recommend for the adoption of hydrogen technologies across various transport sectors such as maritime, road, and aviation in the UK?
This project aims to provide comprehensive support to the national transportation authority in assessing hydrogen technologies for future use. The final outcome will be a detailed white paper that outlines the current status of hydrogen technology in transportation, explores potential future applications, and offers strategic recommendations for its deployment. As part of the commitment to advancing the dialogue on hydrogen in transportation, the insights and contributions from participants at the workshop will be instrumental in developing the white paper. Your valuable input will be acknowledged in the final document.
To register interest and to find out more, please follow this link: https://bit.ly/4bk5rkU
Recently, we sat down and spoke to Bath Hydrogen team leaders Samuel Ray and Oliver Jones to discuss their pioneering efforts in revolutionising automotive technology, after successfully making an engine run on hydrogen. Samuel, the outgoing team lead, initiated his journey with the project last February, marking the transition from technical feasibility studies to practical implementation. Oliver, currently serving as the third-year team leader, is focused on preparing the car for operation, including designing the fuel system and ensuring compliance with safety standards. Join us as we delve into their collaborative efforts and ambitious goals for the project’s future.
Q: Could you give a brief introduction of yourselves and the team?
A: We are the team leaders of Bath Hydrogen. I’m Samuel Ray, the outgoing team lead, and I’ve been with the project since its practical work began last February. Our journey began with a focus on technical feasibility, and over time, we’ve expanded the team’s efforts to include single cylinder engine testing and practical work on the car, fuel system, and safety specifications. Joining me is Oliver Jones, the current third-year team leader, who has played a vital role in advancing the project forward with his expertise in internal combustion engine design.
Q: What is the history of the project?
A: The project evolved from Team Bath Racing, the University Formula Student team, to align with the university’s sustainability goals. The first year was a technical feasibility study. Practical work began in February 2022, and this is the third year of the project.
Q: How many members are on the team?
A: Currently, there are nine members—three final years and six on the GBDP (Group Business Design Project).
Q: What research have you been focusing on?
A: The main focus has been creating a blueprint for running an engine on hydrogen. We started with a single-cylinder engine test rig. The base engine we used was a Vanguard 400 EFI, commonly found in small commercial machinery. We converted it to run on hydrogen by modifying the fuel system, ignition timing, and engine control system. Overcoming health and safety challenges was a significant part of this process. The next step is direct injection running, aligning with our goals for the car.
Q: What were the main challenges and how many test runs did it take to succeed?
A: We took a step-by-step approach, integrating our own ECU and running the engine on petrol before switching to hydrogen. Health and safety were the main challenges. Initially, we conducted numerous tests to ensure the fuel system could handle hydrogen fuel.
Q: What health and safety challenges did you face?
A: Hydrogen leaks easily and burns with an invisible flame. We implemented exclusion zones to separate the fuel source and the engine from the operator. Despite initial concerns, we haven’t had any leaks. The fuel system has been resilient.
Q: What are the next steps and challenges from this point?
A: The biggest challenge will be health and safety. Moving from a test rig to a car requires re-evaluating safety measures. We aim to show that hydrogen is a viable and safe option. Our main goal is to change public perception and demonstrate the potential of hydrogen engines for carbon neutral transport
Q: What is the current land speed record with a hydrogen-powered vehicle?
A: BMW hit 187.62 miles per hour in 2004. However, our car runs in a different category, the 2-litre class, while BMW used a 6-litre engine.
Q: How far are you from making an attempt?
A: The car might run on hydrogen next year, but more likely the year after. We’ll start with standing start records due to the lack of long runways in the UK. To beat BMW’s record, we’d need more funding and probably go abroad.
Q: What are the next steps and challenges from this point?
A: The biggest challenge will be health and safety, moving from a test rig to a car requires re-evaluating safety measures. We aim to show that hydrogen is a viable and safe option. Our main goal is to change public perception and demonstrate the potential of hydrogen engines.
