Hydrogen key in decarbonising transport, but wider impact must be considered

“Hydrogen has a key role in decarbonising transport alongside battery electric technologies in a dual-string approach. However, it’s applicability will largely be at the heavier end of the market and, dependent on advancements in battery technologies, it may be better suited to maritime, aviation, and specific parts of the rail network.

“Battery technologies haven’t yet plateaued, and the UK must actively watch for inflexion points in the market to ensure investment delivers the best value for money. We must also consider the whole life impact of the respective technologies, and balance the adverse implications of battery replacement and scrappage against the costs and challenges in the use of hydrogen for transport.

“Where hydrogen is used, there must be continued focus on securing truly zero emissions hydrogen that can be produced on a cost and energy-efficient basis. New research has highlighted the potential whole life emissions profile of Blue Hydrogen and the challenges that will be faced in achieving zero emission hydrogen production – pointing to a need to focus on Green Hydrogen.

“Transient low emission fuels will also be needed to achieve truly zero emissions transport. Investment in first-of-a-kind sustainable aviation fuel plants in the UK through the Green Fuels, Green Skies competition is welcomed; however, a clearer strategy and plan for production, use, and the phase out of these transient fuels across all modes is needed in order to catalyse investment by industry.”

ENDS

For more information, contact:

Jonathan Burton, Citypress

Jonathan.burton@citypress.co.uk

0161 235 0354

Notes to Editors:

About KPMG

KPMG LLP, a UK limited liability partnership, operates from 21 offices across the UK with approximately 16,000 partners and staff.  The UK firm recorded a revenue of £2.3 billion in the year ended 30 September 2020. KPMG is a global organisation of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Legal, Tax and Advisory services. It operates in 147 countries and territories and has more than 219,000 people working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. KPMG International Limited is a private English company limited by guarantee. KPMG International Limited and its related entities do not provide services to clients.