Statkraft, Europe's largest generator of renewable energy, is set to progress plans for a new green hydrogen facility at Hunterston PARC (Port and Resource Campus), the former coal terminal in Ayrshire.

Clydeport, part of the UK's second-largest port operator Peel Ports Group, has exchanged an option agreement with Statkraft to explore the potential development.

The proposed facility will focus on the production, storage, and export of green hydrogen. It will be linked via pipeline to the existing jetty at the site, enabling the export of hydrogen from the UK in the form of ammonia on vessels. This development represents a significant investment and is expected to create numerous jobs in the local economy.

Lewis McIntyre, Managing Director - Port Services at Peel Ports Group, highlighted the strategic importance of the project: "This is a very exciting new development for Hunterston – hydrogen is vital to the energy transition, and we're proud to play our part in making such a development possible here on the west coast of Scotland. It is testament to Hunterston's vast potential to house a range of innovative renewables projects. Not only are we bringing a brownfield site back into economic use, it will contribute massively to inward investment and job creation in a region that desperately needs it."


Stuart Marley, Statkraft's Principal Hydrogen Project Manager, added: "Hunterston is an ideal home for this facility, given its location and outstanding infrastructure. Hydrogen is an important tool in addressing the emissions from carbon-intensive industries, and we look forward to progressing our plans for the site."

The green hydrogen proposal is the latest in a series of advanced renewable energy projects at Hunterston PARC. These include XLCC's UK-first undersea energy cable factory, Highview Power's world's largest Liquid Air Energy Storage (LAES) facility, and Bakkafrost's onshore aquaculture facility.

Peel Ports Group has also secured planning permission for a £150 million redevelopment of the site's marine yard, which is intended to support offshore wind developments. While currently in discussions with several developers, the company remains open to alternative proposals for the marine yard.

With talks underway with several more potential customers, the entire Hunterston site is on track to generate an estimated £3.5 billion in inward investment and create over 5,000 jobs, solidifying its role as a key hub in Scotland's renewable energy future.