The hydrogen strategy will form a key part of Moray Council’s route map to both carbon neutrality by 2030 and its transition to net zero by 2045. The strategy, partially funded by Highlands & Islands Executive (HIE), will also investigate opportunities for industry within Moray, including the whisky and off-shore renewables industries, to develop hydrogen-based solutions for their energy needs.

The strategy will allow the council to assess its future energy options and demonstrate the benefits and constraints of using hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuels and other renewable energy sources. Coupled with other climate change initiatives currently being undertaken by Moray Council, the strategy will help Moray become a more sustainable and climate resilient region.

The Moray hydrogen strategy is the latest in a long list of global projects delivered across the hydrogen value chain including the Teesside hydrogen transport hub, the Green Seas maritime decarbonisation project in Northern Ireland, and our role as technical architect for the UK Government’s programme to convert the gas network to accommodate hydrogen to decarbonise heat.

Kevin Burnett, Mott MacDonald’s principal account lead for East and North of Scotland, said: “We are proud to support Moray Council in developing its hydrogen strategy and helping the region become carbon neutral by 2030. We are able to offer Moray expertise drawn from across the global hydrogen and power sectors and our aim is to advance sustained economic, social and environmental wellbeing.

“We are very pleased that Moray Council has selected Mott MacDonald to assist it in taking the first steps to becoming resilient and net-zero, and look forward to working closely with the Council, key partners and stakeholders to deliver the strategy.”

Cllr Graham Leadbitter, leader of the Moray Council, said: “Hydrogen is fast becoming a key energy resource in the transition to a low carbon future, and we want to make sure Moray is ready to take advantage of this. Moray is located halfway between the large-scale hydrogen projects in Inverness and Aberdeen, and as we seek to develop a just transition away from oil and gas, hydrogen could be an opportunity to create local energy, to support local jobs, and to assist in reducing fuel poverty.

“Mott MacDonald has been appointed to provide expert assessment and advice that will help us progress our hydrogen strategy and, along with the HIE, we are excited to start working with them to develop a hydrogen corridor along the A96.”