UK-HyRES, in partnership with HI-ACT, recently hosted a pivotal roundtable discussion to explore hydrogen research priorities for the UK’s new government. This gathering of academics, UKRI representatives, and leaders from public organisations was a valuable opportunity to align strategies and address pressing questions about hydrogen’s role in the future energy landscape.
Discussions revolved around critical topics such as how hydrogen can be integrated into future energy systems and how to maximise the potential of the gas network. Rita Wadey highlighted the pressing need for “stability, reality, and clarity” in policy and research, particularly around hydrogen storage, emphasising its critical role in ensuring a sustainable energy transition.
UK-HyRES Director Professor Tim Mays underscored the importance of raising public awareness and aligning it with policy frameworks to foster acceptance and accelerate progress. Collaboration, he noted, is essential for addressing the cross-cutting challenges and opportunities hydrogen presents.
Nigel Holmes from Hydrogen Scotland offered a thought-provoking perspective by asking what hydrogen can uniquely achieve compared to other technologies. He also referenced the “5 Bs” in natural gas and insights from the King Report to frame hydrogen’s role in decarbonisation.
This roundtable was a testament to the strength of cross-sector collaboration in shaping hydrogen’s future in the UK. As the nation looks to decarbonise and meet its ambitious net-zero targets, events like these ensure that research, policy, and public engagement work hand in hand.
