Hydrogen Technology Trials
Hydrogen Powers Kirkwall Airports First Clean Energy Demonstration
Georgia Wray Norsten — October 30, 2025
Hydrogen technology took flight in a new direction this month as Kirkwall Airport in Orkney became the first in the UK to use hydrogen to meet both its power and heating needs. The groundbreaking trial, led by the European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC), showcased a 100% hydrogen combined heat and power (CHP) unit developed by 2G. Installed airside and integrated into the airport’s existing systems, the unit successfully supplied electricity to the terminal and runway lighting while heating the main building without using traditional boilers.
The demonstration used green hydrogen supplied by EMEC and was funded by the Scottish Government through Highlands and Islands Enterprise. Conducted under the Sustainable Aviation Test Environment and Rural Energy Hubs projects, the initiative united experts from EMEC, 2G, and Highlands and Islands Airports Limited. The system maintained a steady output at 60% capacity, validating its reliability for essential infrastructure.
