Plans for a major hydrogen scheme in Barrow will be funded by the Government, the Chancellor confirmed in this week’s Budget.
Rachel Reeves named the Barrow project among 11 green hydrogen schemes that the Government would back with £2 billion-worth of funding.
The previous Government announced it would fund the Barrow Green Hydrogen project in December last year.
Carlton Power is working with Kimberly-Clark to supply green hydrogen to the manufacturing plant, reducing its reliance on natural gas by up to 30%.
It will be first of its type to be built in the UK and expected to employ around 200 people during its construction, and around 10 people full-time once in operation.
It has the potential to supply other manufacturing companies in the area.
Barrow and Furness Labour MP Michelle Scrogham welcomed the announcement.
Mrs Scrogham said: “I am delighted that this Government is prioritising investment in the future economic growth of this country.
“Today’s announcement shows that this government is willing to back Barrow and Furness to be at the heart of that renewal, with our community taking a leading role in driving forward the important green energy transition.
“Our area has the potential to be a national centre for that transition which is so vital to rebuilding our country’s economy.”
The project secured local planning consent in 2023 and will be built on land next to Kimberly-Clark’s facility on Park Road (A590). It is now targeted to enter operation in 2026/27.
