The Hydrogen Valley, positioned in the heart of England, is a transformative regional hydrogen initiative driving job creation, CO2 reductions and attracting substantial investment in the West Midlands and East of England.
Stretching across an East-West corridor from Norfolk to Shropshire, this region plays a key role in power generation, automotive manufacturing, metal processing and building materials.
Despite being predominantly landlocked with limited access to renewable energy for green hydrogen production, various regional initiatives are underway to facilitate the transition to hydrogen. As the UK advances towards a mature hydrogen economy, the Hydrogen Valley becomes a crucial piece of the puzzle.
The region also sits at a strategic intersection of major road networks including the M6, M1 and M40, meaning there is potential for major Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGV) refuelling hubs to be situated in the region.
With a vision to address challenges faced by industries in planning decarbonisation strategies, Hydrogen Valley aims to establish the hydrogen economy in the region and explore infrastructure opportunities to secure long-term, low-cost hydrogen. This will not only accelerate industrial decarbonisation but also attract investment, fostering socio-economic benefits in tandem with the energy transition.
The economic impact and job creation potential of Hydrogen Valley are outlined in a feasibility study by National Gas and Cadent.
The feasibility study envisions:
- Safeguarding and creating 34,000 jobs
- Reducing CO2 emissions by 12.9 million tonnes (over 25% of the reductions needed for the region to meet Net Zero)
- Attracting £28 billion in private capital investment, enhancing energy resilience
- Enhancing energy resilience and shielding customers from fluctuating prices.
Read the full feasibility study report and executive summary here.
The Hydrogen Valley vision was unveiled at the House of Commons in March 2023 at an event hosted by MP Bim Afolami, garnering support from a diverse set of stakeholders, including public and private sectors. Advocates of the Hydrogen Valley include PEPSICO, CEMEX, British Sugar, RWE, and Warwick District Council amongst others.
To see the full list of supporters, click here.
