Wind turbines, UK. Credit: iweta0077 on 123rf
UK-based renewables developer Source Energie has partnered with hydrogen technology firm ERM Dolphyn to develop floating wind sites that produce green hydrogen in the Celtic Sea.
The first site under development is called Dylan, scheduled for deployment by 2028.
The project is located approximately 60km off the Pembrokeshire coast, UK, and, according to the partners, has ideal energy-generating conditions and a number of viable pipeline routes to areas of existing and growing hydrogen demand.
Kevin Lynch, CEO of Source Energie commented on the projects in a statement: “We are delighted that The Crown Estate plans to assign areas in the Celtic Sea for floating offshore wind energy and we are actively engaging in the consultation process.
“We are also excited to work with ERM Dolphyn to take offshore green hydrogen production to significant industrial scale. Source Energie is sure that green hydrogen will play a significant role in energy storage, as a fuel for future transportation needs and as a source of hydrogen for industrial processes.”
According to ERM Dolphyn, future expansion could provide 2GW+ of energy. This would provide enough hydrogen to make a noteworthy impact on decarbonisation targets and provide emissions-free heat to approximately 1 million homes.
Steve Matthews, Commercial Director for ERM Dolphyn said: “Areas of deep water around the UK and Ireland provide great opportunities to generate green hydrogen at scale and to deliver this carbon-free fuel to areas of emerging demand, where it can be used as an alternative to fossil fuels.
“Following on from our projects in Scotland and the North Sea, Dylan is an important additional step, which will help decarbonise areas around the Celtic Sea region, including South Wales.”
Project Dylan is supported by the Welsh Government Smart Living Initiative and is aligned with the policy framework of Net Zero Wales and the Welsh Government’s second carbon budget (2021-2025).
As part of the Wales Hydrogen Pathway, the Welsh Government has funded studies to explore the potential of offshore floating wind and hydrogen production in the Celtic Sea. The final report with the study findings is expected in the near future.
