According to a report released by the Net Zero Technology Center on August 31, 2023, with the development of dedicated offshore pipelines, Scotland's hydrogen production and export potential may significantly accelerate.

Research has shown that investing in a specially constructed offshore pipeline, the hydrogen backbone, to transport hydrogen from Scotland to Europe is crucial for Scotland to achieve its ambitious green export goals by 2045. The initial opening of the hydrogen trunk line can create 700 new jobs, and by 2045, 300000 green economy jobs can be created. By the mid-1930s, Scotland could meet 10% of Europe's expected hydrogen import demand.

The NZTC hydrogen backbone connection project explores the key hydrogen transportation infrastructure required to provide cost-effective pipeline solutions, which will make Scotland a leader in the development of trans-European hydrogen export infrastructure.

The project received funding from the Scottish Government's Energy Transformation Fund and industry matching funding. Before determining that a new dedicated offshore pipeline connecting Europe is the best way for Scottish green hydrogen to enter the market, the reuse of existing oil and gas infrastructure was studied.

By the mid-1930s, the new pipeline will enable Scotland to meet 10% of Europe's expected hydrogen import demand. By continuously investing in additional infrastructure, Scotland can maintain this export ratio after 2045, helping the Scottish government achieve its green export targets and promoting industrial decarbonization on the European continent.

The completion of the hydrogen backbone will create over 700 jobs in Scotland and promote new and existing green hydrogen projects, providing an additional 300000 jobs in the green economy.Editor/GaoLiMei