What's Happening?
EnergyPathways PLC has launched engineering studies for its hydrogen and graphite project in Barrow-in-Furness, UK, in collaboration with KBR and Hazer. This initiative marks a significant advancement
in developing one of the UK's major low-carbon industrial schemes. The studies will utilize proprietary technologies from both partners to design facilities capable of producing low-carbon hydrogen, high-grade synthetic graphite, and low-carbon ammonia. The collaboration builds on a memorandum of understanding signed in July, granting EnergyPathways exclusive UK rights to Hazer's hydrogen technology. The project, known as the MESH project, has been designated a development of national significance, allowing it access to a streamlined planning route under the Planning Act.
Why It's Important?
The Barrow project is positioned to contribute significantly to the UK's energy transition and industrial strategy by focusing on clean hydrogen and graphite production. Graphite is a critical mineral for battery manufacturing and other net-zero technologies, and the project aims to reduce reliance on overseas supply. By targeting an annual hydrogen output of 20,000 tonnes and 60,000 tonnes of graphite, EnergyPathways seeks to provide a more affordable hydrogen production pathway compared to traditional blue and green hydrogen technologies. This could offer economic benefits to Britain's taxpayers and energy consumers, enhancing energy security and industrial resilience.
What's Next?
The engineering and concept development phase, led by the KBR-Hazer alliance, is expected to be completed by early 2026. This timeline aligns with the broader project schedule, which aims to establish a significant production capacity for hydrogen and graphite. The project's designation as a development of national significance may expedite its progress through regulatory processes, potentially influencing future policy decisions regarding low-carbon industrial projects in the UK.
Beyond the Headlines
The Barrow project highlights the growing importance of integrating clean hydrogen production with critical mineral supply chains. As countries strive to meet net-zero targets, projects like this could set a precedent for how industrial strategies are developed and implemented. The collaboration between EnergyPathways, KBR, and Hazer underscores the role of strategic alliances in advancing technological solutions for sustainable energy production.
