Plaid Cymru motion calling for a Hydrogen Strategy for Wales passed in the Senedd
Plaid Cymru led a debate in the Senedd on 15 June, calling for a comprehensive Welsh Government Hydrogen Strategy that will provide long term environmental and economic benefits for Ynys Môn and Wales. The motion received cross-party support and was passed unopposed.
Rhun ap Iorwerth, Member of the Senedd for Ynys Mon has repeatedly called on Welsh Government to pursue opportunities in this “rapidly accelerating” sector, having first raised the potential of Hydrogen in the Senedd in 2020, where he emphasised the need for a swift action plan.
In today’r debate Mr ap Iorwerth pointed to Anglesey as a prime location to implement a Hydrogen Strategy due to existing offshore wind energy generation developments and gas pipeline infrastructure but reiterated that Government investment is now needed in this area of enormous potential for green growth. He emphasised that although there is strong multi sector activity in hydrogen, Wales does not yet have a coherent, strategic framework in which to steer progress and called for a ‘comprehensive government strategy which sets out clear goals and ambition – and as soon as possible.’
Following the debate, Rhun ap Iorwerth, Member of the Senedd for Ynys Môn said:
“I’m excited about the real potential to develop the hydrogen sector in Wales – on Ynys Môn especially, and the job opportunities it could bring, and I’m really pleased to see Welsh Government share my excitement.
“Today offers a clear statement that Wales wants to be an innovator in hydrogen – tackling climate change, transitioning to a new kind of industry, changing communities and creating jobs. Plaid Cymru is determined that Wales must be a part of that revolution.
“It’s crucial now that Welsh Government build on the ‘hydrogen pathway’ they refer to, and ensure that it offers a clear strategy, with well targeted investment to ensure that we can maximise the massive opportunities the hydrogen sector represents for the Welsh economy, jobs, our communities and the environment and meet our decarbonisation targets.”
Hydrogen is recognised for its potential to provide green energy and decarbonise the transport and industry sectors. It has the potential to fuel HGVs and public transportation, heat and power homes and reduce reliance on fossil fuels by diversifying energy sources, and Mr ap Iorwerth is keen to ensure that Anglesey is at the forefront of developments in Wales – building on the exciting Hydrogen Hub plans in Holyhead, led by Menter Môn.
Rhun ap Iorwerth MS added:
