Kent waste-to-hydrogen project aims for UK first

Hydrogen Transition Energy has submitted plans for a proposed waste-to-hydrogen plant in Kent.

The proposed site would be located near Manston Airport and aims to convert non-recyclable waste into hydrogen that could be used as a cleaner fuel source.

According to the developer, the facility would be the UK’s first commercial-scale project of its kind. If approved, it would support efforts to reduce landfill use while creating a new route for hard-to-recycle materials such as mixed household waste, commercial plastics, timber and retired wind turbine components.

The company says the development could also play a role in industrial decarbonisation by supplying hydrogen as an alternative to fossil fuel-based energy in sectors where electrification is more difficult.

Alongside hydrogen production, the proposal includes a visitor and innovation centre intended to help explain hydrogen technology, circular economy thinking and the role of waste-to-energy systems in addressing climate change.

The application is now with Kent County Council, which will consider the proposal through the planning process. If approved, the project could become an early example of how regional waste resources are used to support the UK hydrogen economy.

Read more: Plans submitted to build waste-to-hydrogen plant