The framework covers the development, investment, and operation of industrial-scale green hydrogen production plants across the UK. The companies are also exploring deployment models for future projects, with particular focus on Protium’s portfolio of Hydrogen Allocation Round (HAR) projects.

The first collaboration under review is the Cromarty Hydrogen Project in the Scottish Highlands. Recently acquired by Protium, the project has secured government-backed funding through Hydrogen Allocation Round 1 (HAR1).

Cromarty’s 15 MW electrolyzer is expected to produce about 7 tonnes of green hydrogen per day at peak output. The project is intended to provide a localized energy source for regional decarbonization, targeting heavy industrial heat and power customers, including users that are currently off the national gas grid. Phase 1 is estimated to create about 30 local jobs and apprenticeships.

As primary project developer, Protium will lead power procurement, permitting, downstream infrastructure, and hydrogen distribution. The companies are also evaluating collaboration routes through Hydropulse, ITM Power’s build-own-operate subsidiary for containerized green hydrogen plants, alongside options for Protium to acquire ITM’s electrolysis assets directly. The parallel approach is intended to support commercial due diligence, technical alignment, and value for money.

Dennis Schulz, Chief Executive Officer of ITM Power, said: “By working alongside Protium in a framework ranging from equipment supply to investment, we are bringing together our complementary expertise. Together, we can deliver highly competitive hydrogen with strong long-term economics and help accelerate the UK hydrogen market.”

Christopher Jackson, Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Protium, said: “This partnership between Protium and ITM Power brings two of the UK’s best-in-class hydrogen businesses together to deliver a truly unbeatable proposition for customers. Reliability, affordability and scalability with no compromises and no carbon emissions. This is how we move the UK hydrogen economy from concept to reality.”

A final investment decision for Cromarty is currently targeted for December 2026.

Source:  Hydrogentechworld