“This is great news for the industry, but it is the first step in a very long journey to establishing hydrogen as a key part of our future energy systems and enable the UK to cost-effectively deliver net zero,” Jackson added.

Hydrogen will play an important role in the UK’s transition to a net zero economy by 2050 and is highly effective at reaching hard-to-decarbonise sectors and industries. The Government’s policies will enable this cross-sectoral deployment; however, as is often the case with new low carbon solution is still in the early stages of deployment, hydrogen faces operational cost challenges and will need to compete with low-cost, high-carbon alternatives such as natural gas. Leadership and support will therefore be essential to its success.

By being at the forefront of innovation and technological advancement, the UK has a unique opportunity to establish itself as a world leader in developing and exporting its hydrogen capabilities, with hydrogen expected to find significant uses across a broad range of sectors.

A booming hydrogen economy would deliver economic, social and environmental benefits, whilst positioning the UK as a leader in action against climate change during a critical moment in history.