Plans revealed for green hydrogen project near former Scots nuclear power plant

Green Cat Hydrogen claims its proposal at Chapelcross in Dumfries and Galloway will provide a massive jobs boost.

A green hydrogen project is being proposed for land beside a former Scots nuclear power plant.

Green Cat Hydrogen (GCH) is looking to build the facility at South of Scotland Enterprise’s Energy Transition Zone beside the old at Chapelcross site near Annan in Dumfries and Galloway.

If approved, the firm claims it will create around 50 jobs – and support a further 150 during construction.

A planning application is being prepared and two public events will take place next month.

GCH CEO, Gavin Catto, said: “The public consultation is an important part of the project development process.

“We are committed to listening to the community’s views and working closely with local stakeholders.

“The current project at Chapelcross is just the first phase of what we hope will develop into a significant partnership for Green Cat Hydrogen and our counterparts.

“The project represents a significant contribution to the transformation of Chapelcross into a major hub for this exciting new technology.

“Green hydrogen is especially well-placed to solve the decarbonisation challenge faced in hard-to-electrify sectors, and we are drawing on our wide-ranging experience to move projects across Scotland forward at pace to meet significant anticipated demand.”

If built, GCH say the new facility would be capable of producing more than 4,000 tonnes of green hydrogen per year, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 26,000 tonnes a year – equivalent to planting 20,000 hectares of broadleaf forest.

And the hydrogen produced at the site will be used to decarbonise local industries.

South of Scotland Enterprise bought the land in 2023 and were given the go ahead for the for the energy transition zone in February.

It is hoped the GCH proposal will help kickstart the development of the main Chapelcross site into a green energy hub.

South of Scotland Enterprise chief executive, Jane Morrison-Ross, said: “As part of Scotland’s green industrial strategy, and as the natural capital innovation zone for Scotland, we are committed to creating an environment for investment and growth, as we transition to Net Zero.

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“Our energy transition zone beside Chapelcross is a catalyst to accelerate this ambition, and I am delighted Green Cat Hydrogen have unveiled their plans to be part of the site.

“We know that Chapelcross is perfectly placed in the middle of the UK, and its history and future reflect the importance of innovation in energy production.

“Green Cat Hydrogen’s proposals highlight again the south is the perfect place to invest and do business.

“We would encourage the local community to engage with the upcoming public engagements events to find out more about Green Cat Hydrogen’s plans.”