The ‘world’s biggest treasure’ may be lying in the North Sea in the form of hydrogen which could make it a powerhouse for low-emissions hydrogen production. It has a vast and untapped renewable energy and carbon storage potential that could provide Europe with unrivalled opportunities for developing sustainable energy systems.
With aims to unlock this potential the European hydrogen strategy has come up with an ambitious plan to reach 2×40 GW of electrolysers by 2030, according to Eco News. However, technical issues combined with regulatory hurdles, high costs, and logistical challenges to form major obstruction points mean that this won’t be easy to achieve.
Transport of hydrogen is also said to be cost-efficient, helping to reduce the overall cost of energy infrastructure. Hydrogen can also be imported from other North Sea countries through repurposed North Sea pipelines.
Hydrogen plays a crucial role in advancing Europe’s energy transition, addressing sectors where other renewable solutions and offers opportunities for industries such as steel production, shipping, and aviation to reduce their emissions. With Europe aiming for carbon neutrality by 2050, hydrogen features prominently in the region’s energy strategy. An intermediate target of at least a 55% reduction by 2030 compared to 1990 levels has been set.
By exploiting its natural advantages for hydrogen energy production, Europe can reduce dependence on fossil fuels and decrease greenhouse gas discharge and reach carbon emission reductions.
The UK government is currently consulting on plans to make the North Sea ‘a world-leader in offshore industries, such as hydrogen, carbon capture and wind’. It is also looking to provide the oil and gas sector with ‘long-term certainty on the fiscal landscape’ by ending the Energy Profits Levy and developing a new regime to boost investment in jobs and growth.
The consultation, which will run until the end of April, aims to place the North Sea – its communities, workers, businesses and supply chains – at the core of Britain’s clean energy agenda, says the government.
Over 42 million Britons are now adopting a more eco-friendly lifestyle, which includes giving up their cars, refraining from overseas travel and keeping a close eye on their energy consumption.
A survey of 2,000 adults revealed that 78% are making efforts to lower their carbon footprint by using reusable bags , LED bulbs and energy-efficient appliances.
