Skip to main content Skip to navigation

Hydrogen in UK Transportation

Hydrogen in UK Transportation - From Potential to Reality

10:00 - 16:00, July 8th 2024, Space 42, Scarman Conference CentreLink opens in a new window, University of Warwick

About the Workshop

The UK Hydrogen Strategy, developed by the Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, is integral to the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and meeting its Sixth Carbon Budget by 2035. The strategy sets an ambitious target to scale up low-carbon hydrogen production to 10 GW by 2030.

For the UK to achieve net zero by 2050, its surface transport must transition from fossil fuels to sustainable electricity, hydrogen, and other renewable sources. The UK Transport Vision 2050 highlights that this significant transition will primarily occur between 2030 and 2050. By 2050, electric propulsion is anticipated to become the dominant mode, necessitating extensive battery production and resources. Hydrogen is poised to power about 20% of Heavy Goods Vehicles (HGVs), buses, and coaches, and contribute to 5% of air and 3% of maritime transport. Ammonia and methanol are also projected to become major fuels for 24% and 44% of maritime transport, respectively, further increasing hydrogen demand.

The UK Hydrogen Strategy projects a demand for up to 6 TWh of low-carbon hydrogen in the transport sector by 2030. By 2050, the UK Transport Vision 2050 estimates the hydrogen requirement for transport will be around 69 TWh, including the demand for ammonia and methanol in maritime applications.

Key Discussion Points to Explore:

1. What are the main technical and regulatory challenges in expanding the UK’s hydrogen production and storage capabilities?

2. How can existing infrastructure in the UK be utilised to expedite the rollout of hydrogen technologies?

3. What tailored strategies would you recommend for the adoption of hydrogen technologies across various transport sectors such as maritime, road, and aviation in the UK?

This project aims to provide comprehensive support to the national transportation authority in assessing hydrogen technologies for future use. The final outcome will be a detailed white paper that outlines the current status of hydrogen technology in transportation, explores potential future applications, and offers strategic recommendations for its deployment. As part of our commitment to advancing the dialogue on hydrogen in transportation, the insights and contributions from participants at our workshop will be instrumental in developing the white paper. Your valuable input will be acknowledged in the final document.

The study is being funded by the Warwick University Policy Support Fund 2023 – 2024.

For any general questions please contact Dr You Wu at

you.wu.8@warwick.ac.uk

Confirmed Speakers

Shanwen Tao

Shanwen Tao is a Professor of Chemical Engineering & Sustainable Processes and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry (FRSC). He is recognised as one of the top 2% of scientists worldwide, according to Stanford University’s global rankingsLink opens in a new window. Prof. Tao is also a Co-Director of the UK Hub for Research Challenges in Hydrogen and Alternative Liquid Fuels (UK-HyRESLink opens in a new window). His scientific role within HyRES involves the discovery, design, modelling, and characterisation of novel electro-catalysts for the nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR), aimed at efficient ammonia synthesis through electrochemical processes. Tao's group invented the low temperature direct ammonia fuel cells based on both polymeric and ceramic OH-ionic conducting electrolytes.

Michael Dolman

Michael Dolman, a Partner at ERM, leads the Hydrogen team within the firm’s Sustainable Energy Solutions business. ERMLink opens in a new window is the world’s largest advisory firm solely focused on sustainability, boasting unparalleled expertise across business and finance. Michael has dedicated the past 15 years to hydrogen energy projects, specialising in mobility. His experience spans roles at Element Energy where he was instrumental in launching and overseeing several of Europe’s leading hydrogen mobility projects, which include initiatives involving cars, taxis, vans, buses, and trucks.

Brian Cooper

Brian Cooper serves as the Chief Engineer of Propulsion at Hydrogen Vehicle Systems (HVS)Link opens in a new window, where he is at the forefront of designing and developing the propulsion, thermal, and control systems for a Hydrogen Fuel Cell Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV). HVS Ltd is at the cutting edge of the transportation industry, creating hydrogen-fuelled trucks that offer up to 700km range with fast refuelling capabilities. These innovative vehicles present a direct, emission-free alternative to diesel-powered vehicles, combining hydrogen and battery power to revolutionise sustainable transport.

Neil Miles

Neil Miles is the Head of Customer Development at WrightbusLink opens in a new window, bringing over 20 years of experience in driving customer-centric strategies within the energy sector. Known for his expertise in market development and sustainable technologies, Neil has been instrumental in advancing hydrogen solutions for transportation. His work focuses on bridging the gap between innovation and practical application, ensuring that customer needs align with the latest advancements in hydrogen infrastructure.

At our upcoming workshop, Neil will share his insights on the integration of hydrogen technologies in UK transportation. His presentation will cover a wide scope of interest including Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS), Fuel Cells, and managing a site with hydrogen.

Organising Committee

Professor Kerry KirwanLink opens in a new window, Dr Stuart ColesLink opens in a new window, Dr You WuLink opens in a new window