UK first waste-to-hydrogen plant proposed for Kent – would create 100 jobs
Hydrogen Transition Energy (HTE) is seeking planning permission to build the UK’s first waste-to-hydrogen plant near Ramsgate, Kent.
If approved by Kent County Council, the £120m plant is expected to create at least 100 full-time jobs by the end of 2027.
The proposed 10-acre site at Manston will turn household and commercial waste into hydrogen, vastly reducing the amount of waste currently destined for landfill and incineration.
Using a pioneering heating process to break down the waste to atomic levels before converting the resulting syngas to clean hydrogen, HTE says the plant would create zero-to-very-low emissions and will be near self-sustaining, with approximately 70 per cent energy recovery.
On-site jobs would be a mix of skilled, unskilled and graduate roles, with another 30 posts created to facilitate a training and education centre as a showcase for current and future hydrogen projects.
Energy produced at the plant would initially supply commercial heavy vehicle fleet operators and local authority waste management operations looking to move away from fossil fuels to meet the government’s net zero targets.
Michael Engsted, managing director of HTE, said:
This area of Kent has seen a huge depletion in jobs over the past few decades, which has forced many skilled workers and graduates to relocate.
“We are determined to help revitalise the local community by giving talented individuals a reason for staying here.We are committed to prioritising local recruitment for positions including finance, engineering and science.”
Michael added that HTE will develop outreach programmes with local schools, colleges and universities to inspire the next generation of potential employees, as well as supporting local charities and sports groups.
“Our technology is clean, safe and pioneering. But we need everyone in the community on side, as it is to them we will look first for employment purposes.:
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UK first waste-to-hydrogen plant proposed for Kent – would create 100 jobs, source
