Sussex will be leader in hydrogen energy production

Experts will unveil Brighton’s hydrogen strategy this morning showing how the city and surrounding areas are championing a clean energy infrastructure.

With plans for a Worthing crematorium to become the first in the world powered  entirely by hydrogen, development of a green energy production facility in Shoreham, and a growing fleet of hydrogen-powered buses in Crawley, the region is already breaking ground in the hydrogen industry – and shows no sign of stopping.

Abigail Dombey, chairwoman of Hydrogen Sussex, which commissioned the new plan, said: “With our new strategy, we have developed a foundation of knowledge to support hydrogen development and to secure economic benefit for regional hydrogen growth, production and use.

“This will enable us to begin the transition to a net zero economy and work towards a greener, renewable energy future.”

"There are many exciting opportunities for hydrogen growth in our region - from hydrogen marine projects to investment in a clean energy infrastructure at Shoreham Port and the commercialisation of research into new business ventures.

“The wider Sussex area already stands out in the hydrogen industry with its advanced engineering excellence, maritime decarbonisation research and further education.”

One of the hydrogen buses used in Crawley (Image: Metrobus)

The Greater Brighton Hydrogen Strategy was developed by Hydrogen Sussex and Shoreham hydrogen specialists Ricardo.

The 46-page document is unveiled this morning in an online ceremony.

“The objective is to provide a strategy that helps the region to decarbonise energy, improve resilience, support and promote a hydrogen economy and attract investment to the area,” reads the report.

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“Sussex has the chance to become a key component of the UK’s developing hydrogen landscape. This study found that the region has a long-standing history of engineering excellence that is continuing to evolve with new technologies and a shift to sustainable energy.

“Home to several high-profile hydrogen technology companies, this region has the potential to take advantage of the growing UK hydrogen landscape.

“The private sector and academia have been building on their success from government funding opportunities, particularly in maritime decarbonisation.”