The European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC) has been awarded £454,000 to secure two hydrogen tube trailers that will contribute to improved hydrogen supply in Orkney and improve future connectivity between emerging regional hydrogen hubs in the north of Scotland and islands.

Net zero & energy secretary Michael Matheson announced the funding during a trip to Orkney, which included a tour of EMEC’s onshore facilities on Eday, and Kirkwall Airport’s hydrogen-powered combined heat and power engine.

Mr Matheson said: “Scotland has the resources, the people and the ambition to become a world leader in hydrogen production – no more so than in Orkney, which is at the vanguard of our green energy revolution.

“The Scottish Government is committed to working with the energy sector to establish hydrogen as an important part of our a cleaner, greener energy system and deliver a fair and just transition to net zero.

“Our partnership and support of EMEC has helped to pave the way for a number of world-first tidal and hydrogen demonstration projects in Orkney. These projects have been instrumental in developing both hydrogen supply and demand on the islands. These trailers will help support a number of hydrogen projects on Orkney and help it continue to lead the way in Scotland’s emerging hydrogen sector.”

EMEC managing director Neil Kermode said: “EMEC is really grateful for this important funding. We’ve seen huge growth in the interest in hydrogen in recent years and we need the means to transport the gas to where it is to be used. These trailers will improve the logistics and support exciting new projects.

“Since EMEC first produced hydrogen in 2017, we have helped projects explore the use of hydrogen for the decarbonisation of planes, road vehicles and ferries, but we feel we have barely scratched the surface. There is a lot more to do. These trailers will allow us to use the existing electrolyser more fully and will position EMEC to expand hydrogen production in the coming years.”

HIE area manager Graeme Harrison said: “It is great to be able to support EMEC with this investment which will help maintain Orkney’s place at the global forefront of renewable energy development. Green hydrogen production is set to play a key role in Scotland’s journey towards a net zero future and could support the creation of many high quality jobs.”

Funding for the trailers comprises £400,000 from the Scottish Government and £54,000 from Highlands & Islands Enterprise.