Teesside International Airport in the UK is exploring plans to develop a green hydrogen network across its premises and nearby transport routes, as part of efforts to reduce emissions from ground operations and achieve operational net-zero status by 2030, The Northern Echo reported.
The airport plans to work with North East-based energy company GeoPura to develop the hydrogen network, with renewable electricity from a proposed on-site solar installation potentially used to produce green hydrogen.
The hydrogen could replace diesel generators and provide fuel for ground support vehicles, taxis, last-mile transport and potentially airport buses. The initiative is aimed at creating an integrated clean-energy system to support the airport’s operations and future expansion.
To support the plan, the airport has partnered with renewable energy specialist Geo Green Power to install an initial 1.4 MW of solar capacity. The installation will allow the airport to generate renewable electricity on site, with scope for expansion as energy demand increases.
Airport managing director Phil Forster said the partnership would help advance cleaner ground operations, low-carbon transport and the airport’s longer-term ambition to move towards hydrogen-powered operations.
GeoPura senior vice president and chief development officer Derek Bulmer said combining renewable electricity, hydrogen production and hydrogen-powered transport could create an integrated energy model that may be replicated at other airports and transport hubs.
The initiative comes as Teesside International Airport expands its business park and cargo facilities. A new cargo facility is being built east of the main terminal, while defence company Draken is investing £7 million in a hangar at the site.
Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said the agreement would help ensure that the airport’s expansion is accompanied by progress on sustainability.
Geo Green Power operations director Kitty Cunningham said the planned 1.4 MW solar installation would generate electricity equivalent to rooftop solar systems on around 350 to 400 homes. The solar capacity, combined with green hydrogen, could provide a significant source of clean energy for the airport.
