A major renewables milestone has been reached in Fife.

Toshiba's control system for the Levenmouth Community Energy Project at Methil is now operational, meaning the site can now begin producing hydrogen for vehicle refuelling.

This phase marks the conclusion of the final commissioning step of the project and now both sites in Methil and Bankhead are focused on systems optimisation ahead of their official launch.

At Methil, wind power and solar power is used to generate green hydrogen, which is stored on site. The hydrogen is then used for supplying energy to the surrounding business park, dispensing into vehicles and providing hydrogen for the Council's Bankhead refueling station in Glenrothes. A fleet of 17 hybrid low emission vehicles will be able to access the refuellers at both sites, reducing emissions from transport in Fife.

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The key partners involved in the Levenmouth project are Bright Green Hydrogen, Fife Council and Toshiba.

The development will help meet targets set out in the new Scottish Energy Strategy 'The Future of Energy in Scotland'. The blueprint sets out an aim for renewable energy to meet the equivalent of 50% of Scotland's total energy needs by 2030.

George Archibald, Chief Executive at Bright Green Hydrogen, said: "The Levenmouth project demonstrates how we can use locally produced hydrogen to reduce both CO2 and toxic emissions. This is a vital part of meeting Scotland's climate change targets, and hugely important to protecting public health."

Councillor Ken Caldwell said: "This is great news for Levenmouth. This innovative project will bring many benefits to the area. It's hoped it'll increase economic growth and reduce fuel poverty in the area."

Stephen Stead, Sales and Business Development Director, at Toshiba International, added: "The Levenmouth Community Energy Project has provided the perfect location to engage our technology with innovative green hydrogen applications.

"The project shows hydrogen produced from renewables has a pivotal role in local energy systems, and can maximise the benefits from renewable energy for businesses and communities."

(LM/JP)