Hydrogen in aviation
This study assesses the growing role that hydrogen will play in the future of aviation across South Wales and South West England.
Finding low emission ways to decarbonise energy is a global priority, and particularly for the aviation sector to achieve its net zero carbon commitment by 2050.
As over three-quarters of the global aviation strategy depends on new fuels and related technology to turn this ambition into reality, sustainable aviation fuels are essential in the flight path to a sustainable future.
Within the UK, the South West of England and South Wales have a highly favourable environment for the development of hydrogen aviation. Its renewable energy resources, existing aerospace industry, robust infrastructure, supportive policies, and international connectivity position the region as an ideal hub for advancing hydrogen propulsion technologies in the sector.
Commissioned by Wales and West Utilities (WWU) and OFGEM, this study assesses the major and growing role hydrogen will play in the future of aviation across these two regions. It provides strategic and technical evidence base which will help inform early thinking around the development of hydrogen and set the direction for further work in the region and beyond.
