Energy & Utilities Energy and utilities

Hydrogen Production Licensing and Compliance

Licensing, safety, and environmental requirements for hydrogen production facilities in the UK. Includes Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard certification, environmental permits, planning consent, COMAH compliance, and government funding through the Hydrogen Production Business Model.

UK-wide
Guide summary

To produce hydrogen in the UK, you must obtain licences, meet safety standards, and check if you need Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard certification. Apply for offshore storage licences through NSTA and consider government funding via the Hydrogen Production Business Model (HPBM).

  • Check if your hydrogen production meets the Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard (20g CO2e/MJlhv)
  • Apply for Hazardous Substances Consent if storing over 2 tonnes
  • Register with COMAH if storing 5+ tonnes (Lower Tier) or 50+ tonnes (Upper Tier)
  • Use certified renewable electricity (REGO) for green hydrogen
  • Capture sufficient CO2 for blue hydrogen to meet emissions thresholds
  • Apply for offshore storage licences via NSTA
  • Consider HPBM funding for low-carbon hydrogen projects
  • Comply with DSEAR for all hydrogen facilities (risk assessments, ATEX equipment)
On this page
UK-wide

Related guides in Energy Efficiency

Hydrogen production in the UK is governed by a multi-agency regulatory framework. Whether you're producing green hydrogen via electrolysis or blue hydrogen with carbon capture, you'll need multiple licences and permits before you can operate.

The UK government aims to achieve 10 GW of low carbon hydrogen production capacity by 2030, supported by revenue funding through the Hydrogen Production Business Model (HPBM).

Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard compliance

If you're applying for government support through HPBM, you must certify compliance with the UK Low Carbon Hydrogen Standard. From 2025, certification is delivered by the Low Carbon Contracts Company (LCCC).

Safety requirements

Hydrogen is classified as a hazardous substance due to its wide flammability range and low ignition energy. Your regulatory obligations depend on how much hydrogen you store on site.

Offshore hydrogen storage licensing

If you're planning to store hydrogen in offshore geological formations (such as depleted oil and gas reservoirs or salt caverns), you'll need a licence from the North Sea Transition Authority (NSTA).

Government funding support

The UK government provides revenue support for low carbon hydrogen production through the Hydrogen Production Business Model (HPBM). This is a contract for difference mechanism that bridges the gap between production costs and market prices.