Scottish Power Seeks Approval for Green Hydrogen Facility at Whitelee Wind Farm

Scottish Power has submitted an application for hazardous substances consent to establish a green hydrogen production facility adjacent to the Whitelee wind farm, Scotland's largest onshore wind energy site, located near Eaglesham. This initiative aims to create one of the UK's first large-scale green hydrogen production facilities, utilizing renewable energy sources directly from the adjacent wind and solar farms.

The proposed project involves the electrolysis of water powered by renewable energy to produce hydrogen, which will then be stored and transported in high-pressure trailers. This plan was initially proposed in 2021 when the UK government allocated £9.4 million to support its development. The recent application to East Ayrshire Council details the facility's plans for the storage and handling of hazardous materials, including up to four tonnes of hydrogen, 1.3 tonnes of diesel, and 0.24 tonnes of sodium hypochlorite, all regulated under hazardous materials law.

The hydrogen generated at the site will be stored in mobile tube trailers, with expectations of up to six heavy goods vehicle movements per day for transportation. The facility's design ensures a safe distance of over 1 kilometer (0.6 miles) from public areas, including the nearby B764 road. The project is projected to create approximately 10 permanent jobs, alongside temporary positions related to the co-located wind and solar farms.

Measures to ensure safety and security at the facility include the installation of venting systems, CCTV surveillance, fencing, and possible protective structures such as blast walls. Following the broad application made in 2021, which was deemed nationally significant by Scottish Ministers in relation to hydrogen production policies and net-zero targets, the project received approval in January 2023. This current application for hazardous materials consent is part of the ongoing regulatory process.

East Ayrshire Council will evaluate the application, providing an opportunity for public input during the consultation period. The ongoing developments reflect a significant step towards Scotland's commitment to renewable energy and the reduction of carbon emissions through innovative hydrogen production technologies. If approved, the facility is expected to be operational by the end of 2023, aligning with Scotland's ambitious energy and environmental goals.