A new report published by Matrix, the Northern Ireland Science Industry Panel, shows that Northern Ireland is the ideal location to develop a future economy powered by green hydrogen.

Northern Ireland’s Future Hydrogen Capability and Demand, produced in conjunction with Frontier Economics, reveals that Northern Ireland can utilise its natural resources and existing infrastructure to develop innovative technologies to create and store hydrogen, potentially to heat homes, fuel transport and power industry as well as creating a hydrogen market with export opportunities for both fuel and technology.

Working with stakeholders from across industry, academia and government, the report identifies a range of specific barriers which need to be overcome to create truly transformative change but with its existing skills base, natural factors and willingness on the part of government and industry to decarbonise and invest, Northern Ireland is well positioned to take advantage of the potential benefits of a hydrogen powered economy.

The report also finds that, with buy-in from government and industry, Northern Ireland can position itself as a leader in green hydrogen technology. Dr Rob Grundy, Chair of Matrix said:

If we act quickly and decisively to create an environment where the research talent and business acumen available in Northern Ireland can combine with the existing infrastructure and utility provision we have the opportunity, in uncertain times, to provide security of energy supply, affordable fuel to the consumer and make significant progress towards our net-zero carbon targets.

The report will be published alongside a complementary report from Queen’s University’s Advanced Manufacturing Innovation Centre (AMIC) which provides the basis for establishing a Hydrogen Catapult in Northern Ireland. Professor Paul Maropoulos, Director of AMIC said:

Hydrogen has been recognised as an important element of the Net Zero Strategies of both the UK and Northern Ireland governments. There is significant opportunity for Northern Ireland to establish an active presence in the new hydrogen global economy and a major asset and strategic enabler is Northern Ireland’s ability to generate green hydrogen by utilising its wind generated electricity.

The full report is available to download from the Matrix website by visiting here.