UK government has invested £20 million into Plymouth’s green energy project, the Langage Green Hydrogen Hub. The initiative, led by renewable energy giant Carlton Power, is poised to become a pivotal player in the development of the UK’s hydrogen economy.
The funding, provided by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) in Round One of the Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR1), marks a crucial step forward for the Langage Green Hydrogen Hub. This financial injection empowers Carlton Power to advance the construction of the hub, with anticipated operations starting by 2025.
Situated on the tax-break Langage site, part of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, the Langage Green Hydrogen Hub is envisioned as a cornerstone in the UK’s transition to a low-carbon economy. Notably, it aligns with broader goals of achieving net-zero operations for the freeport. The hub’s clean and sustainable energy production is expected to benefit the Plymouth and South Devon area, creating employment opportunities and contributing to community development.
Eric Adams, Carlton Power’s hydrogen projects director, expressed delight at securing the contract, emphasizing that the Langage project positions Carlton Power as a leading contributor to the UK’s growing hydrogen economy. Adams described Langage as a beacon project for the West Country’s hydrogen ambitions.
Richard May, chief executive of Plymouth and South Devon Freeport, highlighted the innovative nature of the hydrogen hub, asserting its significance not only for Plymouth and South Devon but for the entire region. May emphasized the commitment of the Freeport team to collaborate with global partners for developing clean mobility solutions, furthering the cause of a cleaner and sustainable future for the region.
Local authorities and political figures welcomed the government’s investment as a boon for the region. Cllr John Birch, executive member for economic development, commercial strategy, and governance at South Hams District Council, expressed excitement, foreseeing the Langage Green Hydrogen Hub as a major contributor to the South Hams and the freeport.
Sir Gary Streeter, the Tory MP representing South West Devon, the constituency housing the Langage Green Hydrogen Hub, lauded the government’s significant investment. Streeter emphasized the hub’s vital role in supporting businesses to achieve net-zero targets and welcomed the prospect of new jobs accompanying the hub’s operations.
