Element 2 collaborates with Cranfield university in pioneering £69 million hydrogen aviation project
In a significant move towards sustainable aviation, Element 2 has announced its participation in the Cranfield Hydrogen Integration Incubator, a pioneering £69 million project focused on unlocking hydrogen’s potential as a net-zero aviation fuel. This initiative stands as the largest research funding win for Cranfield University, positioning the UK as a leader in the global push towards emissions-free aviation.
The CH2i project aims to revolutionise the aviation industry by tackling the pressing challenge of decarbonisation. With the projected increase in air travel demand, the need for cleaner, sustainable fuels has become increasingly urgent. Element 2, alongside industry and academic leaders, is spearheading this transformation by investing in the development of a large-scale hydrogen research hub at Cranfield University’s campus, which boasts its own airport.
As a co-investor and key partner in CH2i, Element 2 leverages its expertise in hydrogen fuel solutions to advance the project’s goal of developing and deploying hydrogen as a viable, scalable aviation fuel. This collaboration underscores Element 2’s commitment to innovation and its pivotal role in propelling the transition to a net-zero future.
The CH2i initiative goes beyond a mere research project; it represents the establishment of a dynamic ecosystem at Cranfield, linking hydrogen production, integration, and utilisation. With Element 2’s support, the project will build crucial infrastructure, including new laboratories, test facilities, and an advanced Hydrogen Integration Research Centre, driving the industry towards realising the UK government’s ambitious Jet Zero strategy.
Professor Karen Holford CBE FREng, chief executive and vice-chancellor of Cranfield University, highlighted the significance of the partnership, stating, “This game-changing investment builds on Cranfield’s expertise in hydrogen research and will help the aviation industry to make the leap to using hydrogen.”
Marshall CEO Kathy Jenkins echoed this sentiment, calling the investment in CH2i a vote of confidence in Cranfield’s unique position as a scientific and industrial flagship for the UK, demonstrating hydrogen’s transformative potential in aviation.
Element 2 CTO Brendan Bilton stressed the importance of hydrogen in aviation, stating, “In the face of escalating climate challenges, the aviation sector stands at a pivotal juncture, with hydrogen emerging as a beacon of sustainable progress. At Element 2, we are deeply invested in the transformative power of hydrogen to redefine aviation, offering a viable pathway to net-zero emissions.”
For more information visit www.element-2.co.uk
27 March 2024
