Bringing hydrogen and nuclear together
Nuclear and hydrogen are two clean technologies that can help us make big reductions in carbon emissions. Nuclear generates always-on low-carbon power and for years has provided around 20% of the UK’s electricity. Hydrogen only produces water when it burns and has great potential as a clean fuel for transport, industry, and home heating.
Nuclear and hydrogen are both big priorities for the Government. They were included in the Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution and the 2020 Energy White Paper.
While both technologies are vital on their own, at Sizewell C we have an exciting vision to bring them together.
Reliable low-carbon power
Nuclear is a great way of producing hydrogen as it generates huge amounts of reliable, low-carbon energy.
One of the best ways of producing hydrogen is by splitting water molecules using an electrolyser. Using low-carbon nuclear energy to power the electrolyser means we can produce hydrogen which has no carbon emissions.
At Sizewell C, we are exploring how we can produce and use hydrogen in several ways.
Firstly, it could help lower emissions during construction of the power station. Secondly, once Sizewell C is operational, we hope to use some of the heat it generates (alongside electricity) to make hydrogen more efficiently.
Additional technologies
Sizewell C is already set to be one of the biggest net zero projects in the UK. Linking it to other low-carbon technologies can bring even more flexibility and value to the energy system. Our plans could support the local economy and stimulate a low-carbon hydrogen market in the East of England by enabling local hydrogen production.
Once operational, Sizewell C could produce hydrogen for a variety of uses including:
Powering up to 186 hydrogen buses for our construction workforce
Refuelling and maintenance hubs
Vehicles and machinery
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)
Freeport East
Sizewell C has supported Freeport East which includes a plan to supply hydrogen to the Port of Felixstowe and Harwich.
Working with Hutchison Ports and Ryse-Hydrogen, Sizewell C put forward proposals for a hydrogen hub to provide clean fuel for freight, public transport and other uses, including heating.
Back to top
Contact Sizewell C
- Call: FREEPHONE 0800 197 6102 (Weekdays: 9am - 5pm)
- Write: FREEPOST SZC CONSULTATION (No stamp or further address required)
- Visit: Sizewell C Information Office, 48-50 High Street, Leiston IP16 4EW (open for visits without appointment 9.30am – 5pm weekdays only, closed lunchtimes 12:30pm – 1.30pm)
- For general queries, email: info@sizewellc.co.uk
- For media queries, email: media@edfenergy.com