Energy firm GreenPower has had its planning application approved for a hydrogen production and distribution centre on the west coast of Scotland.

The site, at the Glenshellach industrial estate in Oban, Argyll and Bute, will supply hydrogen produced by electrolysis of water and powered by renewable energy.

GreenPower said the Argyll Hydrogen Hub had the potential to enable the transition away from fossil-fuels to zero-carbon fuels for HGVs, buses, trains, ferries, industrial processes and heating.

It added it was also actively considering the potential for hydrogen production at its other energy generation sites, including at the Barachander Wind Farm, the sister project to Carraig Gheal.

GreenPower director Paul Minto said there was significant potential to decarbonise the transport sector, including HGVs.

“It is an exciting time for the new hydrogen market in UK and with this planning consent for the Argyll Hydrogen Hub we are putting Oban and the region on the UK green hydrogen map,” he said. “Green hydrogen is an important zero-carbon fuel that can help meet climate obligations while delivering sustainable fuel for a wide range of purposes.

“In Argyll there are several sectors currently dependent on fossil fuels where fuel-switching could radically reduce carbon emissions, and where jobs can be created through local production and use of green hydrogen.

“We expect our green hydrogen facility to begin production by the end of 2025, and we welcome all potential users to contact us to discuss supply options.”

The Argyll hydrogen hub

The Argyll hydrogen hub

Source: Green Power International