The South West’s burgeoning hydrogen ecosystem takes centre stage at parliamentary event

Partners from the South West’s hydrogen cluster, Hydrogen South West (HSW), were joined by industry leaders, members of parliament and civil servants at a Westminster reception on Wednesday evening (1 March) to showcase how HSW can fast-track the production, transportation and use of hydrogen in the region and support the UK’s journey to net zero.

The event showcased some of the South West’s unique strengths to support UK Plc and its emerging hydrogen economy – a highly-skilled workforce, world-leading sectors such as aerospace and nuclear, and unparalleled R&D facilities that can scale up innovation quickly to support UK exports.

Thangam Debbonaire MP said: “It was a pleasure to see so many people join us to discuss the huge opportunity that the South West presents for the UK hydrogen economy. With advanced capabilities across aerospace, R&D and skills, Hydrogen South West will play a crucial role in the UK's journey to net zero. This partnership of multi-national businesses and regional leaders is perfectly placed to lead the charge. Together, you are the future”. 

Simon Earles said: “We are capitalising on our unique R&D base and our globally significant sectors such as aerospace and nuclear to accelerate the change. Armed with the industrial experience, delivery expertise and regional knowledge, HSW presents a formidable opportunity to support the UK’s Net Zero transition. I’d like to thank everyone who joined us in Westminster, and Thangam for sponsoring the event. We want to bring as many people and businesses as we can along with us on this journey.”

HSW’s partners and supporting organisations reach across a range of sectors, spanning the wider South West. They include multinational brands easyJet, Airbus, EDF Hynamics and GKN Aerospace, consultants and engineers Costain and WSP and leading regional infrastructure businesses Bristol Port, Wales and West Utilities, Wessex Water and Bristol Airport.

The board is supported by public-private heavyweights including Business West, EY, Copper Consultancy, Western Gateway, the GW4 alliance, and the National Composites Centre, which further reinforces the collaborative approach of the ecosystem.