University to Build New Hydrogen Propulsion Lab

A new research facility aiming to unlock the promise of zero carbon fuels has secured planning permission at the University of Nottingham.

The lab, on the Jubilee Campus in Wollaton, will enable research and safe high-power testing of propulsion systems for transport industries, officials said.

Plans feature cryogenic test capabilities, environmental chambers suitable for altitude testing, and equipment to enable testing of gaseous hydrogen, ammonia, and other green fuels.

In March 2024, the university unveiled £70 million of private, public, and grant funding to boost facilities for developing technology to decarbonise future transport.

A Leap Forward in Zero Carbon Innovation

The lab will be connected to the megawatt-class testing facilities and researchers of the adjacent Power Electronics and Machines Centre (PEMC), the university said.

Officials added the research was aimed at supporting high-growth industries, including aerospace, automotive, marine, and power generation.

Areas of work are expected to include the testing of novel powertrains, including cryogenic electrical machines and power electronics, systems fuelled by liquid hydrogen and other green fuels.

It will operate alongside the university’s new Zero Carbon Innovation Centre, which has been backed by East Midlands Freeport and Loughborough University.

Regional Leadership in Hydrogen Innovation

Chris Gerada, Professor of Electrical Machines and Lead for Strategic Research and Innovation Initiatives, said: "A new hydrogen lab for the East Midlands is a leap forward in establishing the region's leadership in zero carbon innovation on the world stage.

"It is this region that has the right place, the right people, and the right technologies that industries need to achieve their decarbonisation ambitions."

The hydrogen propulsion lab is expected to be operational by mid-2026.