The project will support 16 end-use applications across transport, industry, agriculture and energy, with the aim of developing a connected regional hydrogen network rather than a series of standalone demonstrations.
Hydrogen is being explored as a way to reduce emissions in sectors that can be difficult to electrify, including heavy transport, ports, manufacturing, agriculture and food and drink production.
TH₂ISTLE will also focus on skills development, public engagement and knowledge sharing. Plans include developing digital tools such as a regional hydrogen digital twin, which will help model and analyse the network.
The project aims to generate evidence and insights that could inform the development of similar hydrogen valleys across Europe.
Aberdeen will host the project’s launch meeting on, November 3, bringing together an international consortium of 28 organisations, including universities, industry representatives and economic development agencies.
The University of Aberdeen will contribute digital modelling, simulation and socio-economic analysis to assess potential applications and inform decision-making.
Suzanne Sosna, director of energy transition at Scottish Enterprise, said: “TH₂ISTLE stands out as a hydrogen valley that will go beyond individual demonstrations to deliver a fully connected network of hydrogen projects.
“We are pleased to be supporting the region to grow its expertise into new commercial opportunities with proven demand across multiple sectors.
“With a strong focus on skills and replication, this project will help strengthen and expand Scotland’s collaboration between public and private partners in the green hydrogen market.”
Professor Nick Forsyth, provost of the University of Aberdeen, said: “We are delighted to welcome project partners to the University of Aberdeen for the launch of TH₂ISTLE.
“Bringing together expertise from academia, industry and the public sector, the project provides an important opportunity to explore how hydrogen can contribute to the energy transition while supporting sustainable economic growth across north-east Scotland.
“Aberdeen has a long track record in hydrogen innovation and deployment, and TH₂ISTLE builds on that foundation by creating new opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange and regional leadership in the development of low-carbon energy solutions.”
Dr Alfonso Martinez-Felipe, project lead at the University of Aberdeen, said: “Hydrogen can play an important role in the transition to a lower-carbon energy system, particularly in sectors where decarbonisation is more challenging.
“Realising that potential will require a clear understanding of where hydrogen can deliver the greatest benefits and how it can be integrated effectively into existing industries, but also, how it can transform them.
“Through TH₂ISTLE, researchers at the University of Aberdeen will contribute with digital modelling and simulation expertise, alongside socio-economic analysis, to help assess opportunities, inform decision-making and support the region as it adapts to a rapidly changing energy landscape.”
