by DRONELIFE Staff Writer Ian J. McNabb
California-based hydrogen engine developer ZeroAvia and UK-based energy company Scottishpower recently announced a partnership designed to develop hydrogen infrastructure at airport locations in pursuit of more zero-emission aviation. In addition to exploring supply models and financing, the partnership will also explore additional infrastructure solutions for ZeroAvia within Scottishpower’s operating area, which currently covers Scotland, North-West England and North Wales.
Scottishpower’s own operations are already 100% renewable, with all of their power coming from UK wind farms. Their power is offered to a range of retail and business consumers as wholly clean energy on green tariffs.
ZeroAvia has established operations in Scotland before via their partnership with EcoJet, as well as their partnership to explore hydrogen-electric flight with AGS Airports, including Glasgow and Aberdeen. As Scotland’s government increases investment in clean power production and hydrogen power becomes more available across the UK, the two companies see an opportunity to move hydrogen infrastructure forward.
Sergey Kiselev, Chief Business Officer at ZeroAvia, said: “With the plethora of existing renewables, and many projects planned, Scotland has the chance to lead the UK in developing clean hydrogen supply. Working with leading energy companies like ScottishPower can help us overcome fueling infrastructure challenges.”
Peter Jones, Director of ScottishPower’s Green Hydrogen business, said: “Green hydrogen, powered by renewable energy, can play a key role in the decarbonisation of heavy transport. We welcome the opportunity to support the aviation industry in delivering effective solutions for this important sector, enabling long term sustainable and cost-effective outcomes for customers.”
ZeroAvia’s electric airplane engines for up to 20-seat planes are already undergoing testing in Gloucestershire, with the development of larger engines for up to 40-80 seat aircraft currently in development.
More information about ZeroAvia is available here.
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Miriam McNabb is the Editor-in-Chief of DRONELIFE and CEO of JobForDrones, a professional drone services marketplace, and a fascinated observer of the emerging drone industry and the regulatory environment for drones. Miriam has penned over 3,000 articles focused on the commercial drone space and is an international speaker and recognized figure in the industry. Miriam has a degree from the University of Chicago and over 20 years of experience in high tech sales and marketing for new technologies.
For drone industry consulting or writing, Email Miriam.
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