The country’s leading hydrogen trade association has welcomed today’s election result as “the most advantageous outcome for the sector”.
Celia Greaves, CEO of The Hydrogen Energy Association said the Labour party had put forward the most ambitious vision for hydrogen and she would be working with the new government to firm up its plans.
“We are looking forward to strengthening our existing solid relationships with Labour Ministers and working with the Labour government going forward to develop the details behind their manifesto commitments,” she said.
“We have had many, useful conversations with the party over recent months leading to collaboration around policies and endorsement for our ambition and work to date.
“In the last few weeks, we have seen Labour double down on its Clean Energy Superpower commitments to cut bills, create jobs and delivery energy security by 2030, with investment pledges and reconfirmation of a £500m green hydrogen manufacturing fund.
“We anticipate continuing to work in partnership with the new government to prioritise clean power in line with pledges made in the run up to the election to maintain momentum and push for climate leadership for the UK on the world stage.
“We hope that the incoming government will bring new enthusiasm to drive forward ambitions that require solid commitment and decisive action.”
Celia added that it was vital to maintain the momentum of the last five years that witnessed the launch of the Hydrogen Strategy in 2021, the Scottish Government’s Hydrogen Action Plan in 2022, the launch of the HAR scheme and the passing of the Energy Bill.
“A lot has been achieved but we have to move quickly to reap the benefits of hydrogen across clean growth, energy resilience and Net Zero goals which the Labour government understands,” she said. “Our new Prime Minister has to realise the ambition with policy specifics to underpin the rhetoric and be prepared to make the big decisions that are required to drive change.”