Hydrogen Scotland member Protium has completed its strategic acquisition of the Cromarty Hydrogen Project and wider Scottish development portfolio from Storegga, significantly strengthening Scotland’s position as a leader in industrial-scale green hydrogen production.
The 15MW Cromarty Hydrogen project, a cornerstone of the UK Government’s Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 (HAR1) administered by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ), is set to become a live hydrogen production and distribution facility serving the Scottish Highlands. This development represents one of the most substantial green hydrogen assets to change hands in Scotland this year.
Why This Matters for Scotland’s Energy Future
For Scotland to achieve its Net Zero ambitions, projects like Cromarty are essential. The facility is designed as a ‘smart’ demand-side responder, meaning it will absorb excess renewable energy during periods of peak generation. This capability does two critical things:
- Enhances local grid resilience- reducing strain on Highland infrastructure
- Avoids costly upgrades- saving public money while enabling more renewable generation
Christopher Jackson, CEO of Protium, said: “We aren’t just building a plant; we are embedding energy security, skills, resilience and economic opportunity through deploying a service that ensures Highland communities are the primary beneficiaries of the energy transition.”
What sets this acquisition apart is its track record. Protium brings operational experience from its Pioneer 1 and Pioneer 2 facilities in South Wales that demonstrate real-world delivery:
| Asset | Status | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|
| Pioneer 1 | Operational since 2023 | Successful commercial hydrogen deliveries; proven integrated maintenance model |
| Pioneer 2 | Commissioning (full operation from June 2026) | 2.5MW capacity; one tonne of green hydrogen per day; 25x scale-up from Pioneer 1 |
Tim Stedman, CEO of Storegga, added: “Our priority has been to ensure these projects move forward under an established developer, with the platform and capability to take them into delivery. Protium’s track record and growing UK presence position them well to advance these projects.”
Community and Planning: The Next Steps
The project remains subject to final planning approval, with a committee decision expected next month. Protium has committed to a transparent process, working closely with the Highland Council and local Community Councils. Engagement sessions are planned over the coming months to ensure local insights shape the project’s development.
A Critical Moment for UK Energy Security
This acquisition comes at a time when domestic energy self-sufficiency has moved from a long-term ambition to a national security priority. With global market volatility and supply chain disruptions affecting traditional energy sources, projects like Cromarty represent a tangible path toward a resilient, home-grown energy system.
Learn more about the Cromarty Hydrogen Project here.
