Aberdeen City Council is spearheading an ambitious bid to establish a "hydrogen valley" in the North East of Scotland, aiming to integrate hydrogen production, storage, and various end-use applications. The project, named TH2ISTLE, is seeking £7.7 million in funding from the Clean Hydrogen Partnership under the Horizon Europe programme.

This initiative is designed to make a significant contribution to the region's decarbonisation efforts, aligning with Scotland's target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2045. Aberdeen, long recognised as a major European energy capital, has been actively involved in hydrogen innovation for over a decade.

The TH2ISTLE project envisions the integration of five hydrogen production sites across the region. This network is intended to ensure a consistent supply of green hydrogen, thereby reducing reliance on fossil fuels and bolstering energy security. It is projected that the project could produce up to 627 tonnes of hydrogen annually by 2028, with significant potential for future scaling. Total investment in the initiative, including leveraged national and regional funding, could reach £62 million.

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A key focus of the project is job creation and skills development. It is estimated that the TH2ISTLE project could generate between 700 and 1,000 jobs during its initial deployment phase. Longer-term projections suggest the potential for up to 13,000 jobs by 2030 through the development of new skills and targeted training programmes. These programmes will particularly aim to support the transition of the region's existing oil and gas workforce, leveraging their extensive transferable skills for the burgeoning hydrogen sector.

Councillor Christian Allard, Co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, stated: "The TH2ISTLE project represents a bold step towards a sustainable future for North East. By harnessing the power of hydrogen, Aberdeen is set to lead the way in energy transition, driving economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. With our rich energy heritage, skilled workforce, and strong partnerships, Aberdeen is the perfect location to spearhead this transformative initiative."

Councillor Ian Yuill, Co-leader of Aberdeen City Council, added: "We have been at the forefront of hydrogen innovation for over a decade, and the TH2ISTLE project is a testament to our dedication to a greener future. The region's extensive experience in energy production and its strategic location near significant renewable resources, such as offshore wind, further enhance its suitability for this initiative."

The TH2ISTLE project involves a diverse consortium of 30 partners, highlighting a collaborative approach to realising the region's hydrogen ambitions.