A competition to find and fund innovative solutions to improve electrolyser efficiency has been launched by the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC) today, Thursday 7 March.

Electrolysers help with the sustainable production of hydrogen, separating the hydrogen and oxygen molecules found in water using electricity without emitting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

Improving the efficiency of hydrogen production is crucial to the success of strategically-located Energy Hubs that will integrate various energy vectors to meet national power demands and facilitate energy export, NZTC said.

Technology developers can apply for funding to accelerate the development of their electrolyser technology towards pilot or prototype level.

Up to £500,000 of funding is available, and will be split between three to five technologies, with the deadline for applications being 23:59 on Sunday 14 April 2024.

The funding competition has been launched as part of the Energy Hubs Project, one of seven within the Net Zero Technology Transition Programme (NZTTP).

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Darren Gee, NZTTP programme manager, said: “Our latest call focusing on innovative electrolyser technologies supports sustainable hydrogen production and the development and feasibility of Energy Hubs.

“Our funding competitions always bring to the fore a dynamic range of technologies that drive progress toward global energy goals.”

Scottish government minister for energy, just transition, and fair work, Gillian Martin, also commented: “The Scottish government is helping fund this important research into cutting the cost of hydrogen production through our Energy Transition Fund.

“This will make hydrogen more attractive to exporters and help secure new markets for our abundant renewable energy resources.

“We are supporting innovative, green technologies to spur on the just transition, build a sustainable economy and help reach net zero.”