Unlocking the Potential: UK Project Turns Wastewater into Green Hydrogen

Plans to produce “fuel cell grade” hydrogen using wastewater in Cambridgeshire, UK, are set to become a reality this summer.

Element 2, a leading UK hydrogen infrastructure firm, has announced its partnership with Anglian Water’s Milton Road water recycling site in Cambridge to purchase hydrogen generated by a new electrolyzer. The hydrogen will be supplied to hydrogen-powered vehicles, marking a significant step in reducing carbon emissions and exploring the potential of wastewater in hydrogen production.

Under the Triple Carbon Reduction Project, funded by Ofwat’s Water Breakthrough Challenge, this innovative initiative aims to make strides in carbon emission reduction during the water recycling process. As part of the project, an electrolyzer installed by Logan Energy at an Anglian Water wastewater treatment plant in Cambridgeshire will investigate the use of treated wastewater for hydrogen production.

With operations set to commence in July 2023, the collaboration between Element 2 and Anglian Water expects to generate 91kg of hydrogen daily. This milestone will not only provide a sustainable source of fuel but also enable both parties to assess and quantify the environmental benefits of the trial.

Element 2’s role extends beyond hydrogen purchase. The company will also provide storage facilities for the hydrogen produced at the Anglian site and transport it to its hydrogen refueling station network across the UK. This strategic move supports the fueling needs of its customer base, including hydrogen-powered vehicle fleet owners and operators. Moreover, the hydrogen will be utilized to facilitate hydrogen engine developments and trials of new fuel cell vehicles, propelling advancements in clean transportation technology.

This groundbreaking project underscores the transformative potential of wastewater in the production of renewable hydrogen. By harnessing this previously untapped resource, the UK takes a significant step towards achieving its decarbonization goals and establishing a sustainable hydrogen economy.