Let’s Talk Hydrogen: Powering a Net Zero Future

In this TalkPower guest blog, we invite Hynamics, EDF’s specialist low-carbon hydrogen development business, to explain what hydrogen is, explore how it’s shaping the energy transition, and discuss its important role in a sustainable future.

Hynamics is a producer and distributer of nuclear and renewable hydrogen, produced through the process of electrolysis. Through dedicated resource and strategic investment, Hynamics is helping lead the way in the hydrogen revolution.

Starting with the basics: What is hydrogen? 

Hydrogen is the lightest element on earth and an increasingly important part of the global clean energy mix. In 2023, global hydrogen demand was roughly 97 million tonnes (Mt). Although hydrogen is used in many areas, it’s primary use is in chemical and refining industries where hydrogen is used in established processes like hydrocracking and ammonia production (often for fertiliser). 

Is all hydrogen created equal?

Not quite. Hydrogen can be produced in several different ways, and its environmental impact varies significantly depending on the production method. To help distinguish between these methods, the industry often refers to the ‘hydrogen rainbow’, a colour-coded system that identifies the environmental impact of different production methods. Here’s the variations:

• Grey Hydrogen: Produced from natural gas (and sometimes coal) via steam methane reforming. For every 1 kg of grey hydrogen, around 10 kg of CO2 is emitted - a highly carbon-intensive process. Today, the vast majority of global hydrogen is grey.
• Blue Hydrogen: Made using the same process as grey hydrogen, but with carbon capture technology added. The CO2 is captured and stored underground, reducing its impact on the atmosphere.
• Green Hydrogen: Created through electrolysis - splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen and powered by renewable energy like wind or solar. No fossil fuels involved, making it a clean alternative.
• Pink Hydrogen: Also produced through electrolysis but powered by nuclear energy instead of renewables.

Where does Hynamics fit in?

Hynamics focus on low-carbon hydrogen produced through electrolysis powered by either renewables, nuclear or a smart combination of both. This approach aligns perfectly with EDF’s broader mission to deliver net zero energy solutions.

Our core goal is to reduce carbon emissions, especially in sectors that are hard to electrify. These include:

• Heavy industry
• Transport and mobility
• Aviation and maritime, including the development of e-fuels

We operate in France and the UK, with three hydrogen production sites already active in France and two more in construction. In the UK, Hynamics Tees Green Hydrogen project has secured a Low Carbon Hydrogen Agreement for Phase 1 through the Hydrogen Allocation Round One. Tees Green Phase 2 and an additional project in Fawley have been shortlisted by DESNZ in Hydrogen Allocation Round Two.

Could hydrogen shape the future of energy for your business?

Hydrogen is set to play a crucial role in the UK’s journey to net zero, particularly in sectors where direct electrification isn’t always practical. such as heavy industry, transport and aviation. 

For industrial and commercial (I&C) customers, hydrogen isn’t just a new energy source but a chance to lead the low-carbon transition. It offers a way to power processes traditionally reliant on fossil fuels, helping businesses cut carbon emissions while maintaining operational performance.

For businesses, this opens the door to:

• Decarbonise operations: Replace high-emission fuels with low-carbon hydrogen for heat, power, or mobility needs.
• Boost energy resilience: Hydrogen can be produced and stored locally, reducing dependence on volatile fossil fuel markets.
• Strengthen competitive advantage: Early adopters will be well-placed to meet evolving sustainability regulations and the growing demand for greener supply chains.

Hynamics is actively developing bespoke hydrogen solutions in the UK and across Europe to help businesses meet these challenges head-on. I&C customers can get involved today by:

• Assessing where hydrogen fits into their energy strategy
• Joining pilot projects to test real-world applications
• Partnering with experts like Hynamics to design a tailored roadmap for low-carbon transformation

Interested in learning more?

The Hynamics team would be happy to explore how hydrogen could power your path to net zero. Contact your account manager directly or email the TalkPower team at Letstalkpower@edfenergy.com.