A ‘fantastic opportunity’ could see Barrow become home to Cumbria’s first low-carbon hydrogen hub.

The proposed £40m 35MW commercial hydrogen hub is being brought forward following the signature of a Memorandum of Understanding between Carlton Power and local stakeholders, comprising the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP), Barrow Borough Council (BBC), Cadent and Electricity North West (ENW).

It is thought that it will create eight-full time operational jobs created - but there might be as many as 200 construction jobs during its creation.

Carlton would like to see the Barrow Green Hydrogen hub in operation by 2025 and intends to seek financial support for the scheme from the UK Government’s Hydrogen Investment Package.

Initially, the green hydrogen produced is expected to be used for industrial processes, with scope in the future for vehicle refuelling and residential heating.

Barrow and Furness MP Simon Fell said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Barrow and a really important step forward for businesses and homes in the community - not least for those who will be taking their energy from the green hydrogen produced from when it launches in 2025.

“This is an important move towards de-carbonising our fuel supplies and creating greater energy resilience. Given the massive disruption to the energy markets post-COVID and as a result of the war in Ukraine, this is very welcome news indeed.”

BBC and the CLEP Partnership will be working with Carlton Power to identify and maximise the economic and environmental benefits, whilst Electricity North West will provide insight into the existing power networks in the area.

Jo Lappin, chief executive of the Cumbria LEP said: “The LEP has prioritised clean energy generation as one of our key strategic priorities to support economic growth, based on Cumbria’s significant skills, expertise and track record in this area. Our recently published Clean Energy Strategy is clear that we want to support a range of technologies including hydrogen and we were therefore delighted to work with Carlton Power to broker introductions to both businesses that could use the power once generated and to local stakeholders, who will be important in helping move this project forward”.

Cadent, the gas distribution company, is already advancing plans to stop carrying methane and switch to hydrogen.

A Cadent spokesman said: “As the local gas distribution network operator, Cadent is involved in various national hydrogen projects in the UK energy sector. Cadent is able to offer the Barrow Green Hydrogen scheme hugely valuable knowledge and expertise at local and national levels.

“Our Hydrogen Ten Point Plan outlines a long-term commitment to decarbonise homes and businesses in a way that minimises the impact on the consumer, while also creating jobs across the UK.”