Port of Aberdeen, in partnership with Subsea7, has secured a grant of £150,000 from the Scottish Government to investigate the feasibility of storing hydrogen underwater at the new Aberdeen South Harbour.

The ‘H2Shore – Hydrogen coastal storage and distribution’ project will conduct thorough engineering analyses to determine the most effective technological approach and identify an appropriate offshore location. Additionally, the project will develop an outline business case.

Energy consultancy firm, Xodus, is tasked with scrutinising the necessary distribution and bunkering requirements, with a focus on equipment, processes, and operating procedures.

This study is among 32 projects to receive funding from the Hydrogen Innovation Scheme, a programme dedicated to fostering innovation in renewable hydrogen production, storage, and distribution.

Marlene Mitchell, Commercial Manager, Port of Aberdeen, said: “Securing Scottish Government funding for our H2Shore project is a significant achievement. Ports have a pivotal role in the transition to hydrogen technologies, contributing to the journey towards net zero emissions and serving as crucial infrastructure for hydrogen transport and trade. This initiative is one of many promising opportunities we’re exploring to position Port of Aberdeen at the forefront of Scotland’s burgeoning hydrogen economy.”

Stian Sande, Group Strategy Director Energy Transition at Subsea7 said: “We are delighted to be working with Port of Aberdeen on this innovative hydrogen storage project. We are looking forward to exploring and evaluating suitable concepts with the goal of enabling and accelerating offshore hydrogen production, storage and infrastructure. As a global leader in delivering complex energy projects, we continue to work with our partners and clients to make the energy transition possible.”