An event was held which highlighted the launch of the new technology of the Hydrogen Electrolyser, storage and refueller and the hydrogen hybrid heating system at Milford Waterfront.

As part of the £4.5m two-year Milford Haven: Energy Kingdom (MH:EK) project, it explores what a decarbonised smart local energy system could look like for the waterway.

Attendees at the event on the morning of Thursday, October 7, had the opportunity to learn of the important role of hydrogen in transport and heating solutions.

Furthermore, they learnt how the Milford Haven Waterway could deliver as a Green Hydrogen hub for the UK.

The project will explore the potential of zero carbon hydrogen alongside renewable electricity to meet the UK target of net zero emissions by 2050.

MH:EK will explore how to make using and distributing hydrogen financially viable within the different energy sectors of buildings, industry, power and transport.

The two key demonstration projects were:

  • Riversimple's hydrogen powered RASA car:

The project will demonstrate the practical application of hydrogen technology by testing the feasibility of two hydrogen fuel cell powered RASA cars.

Built by Riversimple, they will operate as fleet cars in and around the Haven, using the green hydrogen electrolyser and refuelling facility now installed on Mackerel Quay on the port estate.

  • Hydrogen hybrid heating system:

This heating system is a world-first demonstration combining a hydrogen boiler with a heat pump and smart controls to deliver low carbon heating at the lowest possible cost.

Councillor Cris Tomos, cabinet member for environment and Welsh language at Pembrokeshire County Council said: "We believe the MH:EK project holds promise in showcasing the far-reaching benefits of low carbon energy. It has the potential to lead the way and become the first of many Smart Local Energy Systems supporting our local communities, Wales and the UK in reaching the legislated target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050."

Secretary of state for Wales, Simon Hart MP, said: "It is fantastic to see Wales and the Milford Haven Waterway right at the forefront of hydrogen technology. The energy sector in Milford Haven is already hugely significant. The expansion into green energy is of vital importance for achieving the UK Government’s target of net zero by 2050 and safeguarding local jobs and prosperity for the future."

Steve Edwards, commercial director at the Port of Milford Haven said: "Supplying a fifth of the UK’s energy needs and supporting 5,000 jobs in Wales, the energy sector on the Milford Haven Waterway is of strategic significance. Milford Haven is well known as the energy capital of the UK and we are actively pursuing opportunities to add low carbon energy resources to the mix. Decarbonisation of our energy supplies is vital and this project sets out a roadmap which includes useful and tangible demonstrators to aid research and build knowledge and understanding as we decarbonise the energy system. We’re excited to be exploring how green energy will empower the next generation."

Steve Wyatt, research and innovation director, Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult: "It is clear that hydrogen has a crucial role to play alongside offshore wind if the U.K. is to achieve our goal of net zero by 2050. The MH:EK project is providing us with the real world experience of the technology and commercial systems which will be vital in our transition to a low carbon economy."