Hydrogen firm powers on with port agreement

A zero-emission power firm has strengthened its client book with a maritime sector deal.

GeoPura is working with Forth Ports to produce green hydrogen at Port of Tilbury.

Bosses say the “landmark” ten-year agreement will place the Essex-based trade hub “among the first major British ports to host commercial-scale hydrogen production for heavy industrial use”.

They add the move will see GeoPura develop an initial 1MW production plant at the port, which will generate hydrogen via electrolysis powered by on-site solar panels.

Backed by £2 million Thames Freeport seed capital, the deal comes just days after Newcastle-based GeoPura unveiled a contract to support the Lower Thames Crossing project.

It also follows work to found hydrogen production sites that include a base on the footprint of a former coal-fired power station site in High Marnham, near Newark, Nottinghamshire, which has Government Hydrogen Allocation Round programme support.

Andrew Cunningham, GeoPura chief executive, said: “Tilbury is another powerful example of how the UK can use its existing industrial infrastructure to produce renewable fuels for the future.

“It’s great to see the clear commitment of Port of Tilbury to decarbonise its operations.”

David Webster, Port of Tilbury regional director, added: “Forth Ports has a track record of delivering solutions across low-carbon logistics, sustainable construction and on-site power generation.

“We are excited to be working with the GeoPura team to deliver green hydrogen generation.”

• Driving a step-change in sustainable energy provision - Read an in-depth feature with GeoPura chief financial officer Derek Bulmer about the firm's growth plans here

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