In an open letter to the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, 12 organizations representing energy, transport and industry highlighted the important role of ammonia in decarbonising energy-intensive sectors, supporting maritime transport and strengthening the UK’s energy security.
In their letter, they called on the government to ensure that low-carbon ammonia is clearly integrated into the UK’s hydrogen strategy.
They highlight that recognizing the contribution of ammonia is essential if the UK is to meet its climate goals, remain globally competitive and secure its position as a leader in clean technology.
Signatories to the letter include the British Compressed Gas Association, British Ports Association, British Ceramics, Energy Users Group, Future Humber, Hydrogen Energy Association, Hydrogen Scotland, Hydrogen South West, Hydrogen UK, Maritime Industry Association, British Ammonia Alliance and the UK Major Ports Group.
Key benefits of low carbon ammonia across the industry
The letter identifies four key areas where low-carbon ammonia could provide significant benefits.
Decarbonization of existing industrial applications: Ammonia is important in areas such as chemicals, refrigeration, explosives, textiles, and water treatment. Low-carbon ammonia can replace fossil-based ammonia in these industries and support decarbonization. Fertilizers and Agriculture: Low-carbon ammonia can replace existing fossil-based ammonia and help decarbonize this sector. Maritime transport: Shipping companies are already investing in dual-fuel and ammonia-capable vessels, highlighting the role of ammonia in decarbonizing global trade. Energy security and resilience: Ammonia is storable and transportable, making it ideal for low-carbon peaking power generation. This allows renewable electricity to be moved from areas of surplus to areas where it is most needed.
Decarbonizing energy-intensive industries for a sustainable future
These organizations are calling on the government to ensure that a revised hydrogen strategy clarifies the role of ammonia in the short and long term and sends a clear signal of commitment to industry and investors.
The open letter reads: “The UK is at a crossroads in industrial competitiveness.
“Energy-intensive industry and transport are at the heart of our national strength and the choices made today will determine whether these sectors can deliver a sustainable and affordable future for the British people.”
Ammonia and hydrogen are closely related
Leaders also highlighted the importance of ammonia to delivering on the hydrogen promise.
“As a leading association representing energy, transport and industry, we believe that hydrogen is essential to key sectors of the future of the global economy. We are also advocating for consideration of the role of ammonia in helping to achieve hydrogen-related strategic objectives.”
Overall, leaders and organizations have concluded that a revised hydrogen strategy must clearly articulate the role of ammonia in both the short and long term.
Doing so would send a strong signal that the UK is serious about building a competitive and resilient hydrogen economy.
Source link
