Business leaders across the Humber region have issued a powerful collective call for the Government to "re-energise" the area by selecting it as the pioneer for the UK's first hydrogen infrastructure network. This crucial decision, backed by a potential £500 million in funding, could define the future of energy in the region and unlock significant economic potential.
A Unified Regional Appeal
The Humber Energy Board has formally written to Energy Secretary Ed Miliband, presenting a compelling case for why the Humber must become the nation's hydrogen trailblazer. The letter carries the weight of thirty prominent businesses and organisations, representing a broad coalition of regional interests. Signatories include eleven major energy companies, all four local authorities, the Mayor of Hull & East Yorkshire, Humber Freeport, trade unions, further education colleges, training providers, and universities.
Why the Humber is the Prime Candidate
The correspondence outlines a multifaceted argument for the Humber's suitability. It points to the region's favourable geology and geography, existing proposals for local green and blue hydrogen production facilities, and a ready base of prospective industrial customers. The bid is framed as essential for reducing emissions and safeguarding the future of the region's critical industrial base.
The group emphasises that new infrastructure to provide hydrogen, alongside carbon capture and storage capabilities, is vital for future-proofing the Humber's industry. This development is seen not only as protecting existing employment but as a catalyst for creating thousands of new, skilled jobs and extensive supply chain opportunities.
The Stakes: Transformation or Decline
The push comes at a pivotal moment. The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero is set to launch a selection process in the first half of 2026, choosing one UK industrial region to receive the half-billion-pound funding package. The funds are designated to establish the UK's inaugural regional hydrogen transport and storage network, connecting producers with end-users like power stations and heavy industry.
The letter starkly warns of the risks if the Humber is not selected, highlighting recent industrial setbacks as a cautionary tale. It references the closure of the Vivergo Fuels biofuels plant and Prax's Lindsey Oil Refinery, the cancellation of Pensana's rare earths plans, redundancies at Ineos, and the continued suspension of operations at fertilizer manufacturer Yara. Securing the hydrogen network is presented as a decisive move to reverse this trend and stimulate growth.
Blueprint for a Hydrogen Future
Detailed proposals are already in the public domain, shaped by recent consultations. The vision includes a Humber Hydrogen Pipeline (HHP), designed to initially connect key users and storage sites. These strategic locations encompass Saltend Chemicals Park, Easington Terminal, Aldbrough, and the Immingham industrial area.
Complementing this, the Aldbrough Hydrogen Storage (AHS) project has consulted on plans to utilise underground salt caverns for the safe, large-scale storage of hydrogen gas, leveraging the region's unique natural assets.
Voices from the Frontline
Richard Gwilliam, Chair of the Humber Energy Board, stated: "2026 will be a vital year for the Humber, with several game-changing decisions from Government around hydrogen and carbon capture and storage which could transform the region. Today the Humber is critical for UK energy security, and business and partners in the region want to go further."
He added: "This incredibly strong proposal to deliver a low-carbon industrial cluster is backed by experienced energy and infrastructure companies that are prepared to invest billions to create the new opportunities that this region needs. Now is the time for the Government to unlock this potential and re-energise the Humber."
The business community's call has found strong support among local MPs. Graham Stuart, MP for Beverley and Holderness and a former Energy Minister, argued: "If the country is to take advantage of key technologies, reduce emissions, create jobs and cut bills, we need action. That's why we need the government to support hydrogen and carbon capture in our area and bring investment back to the Humber."
Melanie Onn, MP for Great Grimsby & Cleethorpes, reinforced the message: "The Humber is the ideal place to locate the UK's first hydrogen network... Hydrogen will play a key role in the energy transition, helping major employers in this region to reduce emissions whilst retaining jobs and stimulating economic growth. We want to see the hydrogen economy kick-started here in the Humber."
As the 2026 decision point approaches, the unified campaign from the Humber's business and political leaders presents a clear vision: a £500 million investment in hydrogen infrastructure is not merely a funding award, but a transformative opportunity to secure the region's industrial legacy and power its future for decades to come.
