The UK Government recommitted its support for hydrogen projects across the region within Rishi Sunak MP, Chancellor of the Exchequer, outlining the investment in the 2021 Autumn Budget. Many of the references to hydrogen within the budget reconfirm that the UK is prepared to support the hydrogen ecosystem and will invest to ensure that a thriving value chain is created in the region. This came in the form of pledging funds towards the Net Zero Hydrogen Fund, the Industrial Decarbonisation and Hydrogen Revenue Support scheme, and the Holyhead Hydrogen Hub. As well as this, the UK Government also outlined £1m ($1.38m), subject to a business case, to support the delivery of an Extreme E race in Scotland.
With the budget presented in parliament this week, many of the opposition voiced concerns about the level of investment being made in hydrogen.
Rachel Reeves, Shadow Chancellor of Labour, said, “Industries like steel and hydrogen are in a global race, but without the support they need.”
Clearly hydrogen is becoming a hot topic with UK politics with both parties voicing commitments to develop a thriving ecosystem.