SSE Renewables decided to abandon its plan for a hydrogen hub at the Gordonbush Wind Farm in Strath Brora. This decision comes after the energy company’s unsuccessful bid for funding support from the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ).
The initial proposal by SSE Renewables involved the construction of a hydrogen production plant at the wind farm, utilizing electrolyser technology provided by Siemens Gamesa. The process would involve using energy generated at the wind farm to separate water into oxygen and hydrogen, with the hydrogen to be stored and distributed to various sectors such as transport, heating, and manufacturing. The company estimated that they would produce around 2,000 tonnes of green hydrogen annually, which could power distilleries, offshore wind farm service vessels, and buses.
However, the proposal faced strong opposition from local residents, including Christina Perera, who expressed relief at the abandonment of the project. Concerns raised by objectors included the potential for explosions due to the volatility of hydrogen, the transportation of gas using “tube trailers” on a single-track road, and the significant amount of groundwater required for the production process.
Despite SSE Renewables’ efforts to obtain Hazardous Substance Consent and funding support from DESNZ, the project was ultimately rejected in the Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 scheme. In response, SSE announced that they would not be proceeding with the development of the Gordonbush Hydrogen project.
Ms. Perera speculated that the lack of funding was not the sole reason for the withdrawal, emphasizing that there was no market for the hydrogen as potential buyers had backed out. She criticized SSE Renewables for disregarding the negative impact their actions had on local communities and urged for better protection against large corporations exploiting resources without considering the consequences.
In conclusion, the abandonment of the hydrogen hub project at Gordonbush Wind Farm marks a significant development in the renewable energy sector. The decision reflects the challenges faced in implementingchat.completion
