Hydrogen Plant Gains Consent Amid Controversy in Welsh Region

Bridgend Council approved a hydrogen project called Hybont, though it’s been controversial. Marubeni Europower Ltd wants to build it, including a hydrogen plant and solar farm. The planned location is Brynmenyn Industrial Estate. The Welsh Government must still approve it.

The council met on February 20 to discuss storage and industrial use. Developers gave a presentation, and council members and the public spoke. Many people oppose this project, noting that an earlier plan failed before after the Health and Safety Executive objected.

With the council’s approval, they can now check hydrogen levels and potentially approve full planning permission. However, the Welsh Government will make the final decision. The meeting, lasting four hours, saw arguments between residents and officials.

Councillor Tim Thomas spoke out, emphasizing that hundreds of locals oppose the project, with over 300 objections recorded. The public consultation highlighted various concerns, reflecting the many reasons people are against it.

Local Chris Owen believes the location is wrong due to its proximity to homes and businesses. Residents worry about emergencies, worsened traffic and congestion, and the potential for the business park to become hard to reach.

Concerns also extend to site access, as there’s only one road in and out. Others fear the disappearance of green space, increased noise pollution, and potentially decreased water pressure at home. Residents also anticipate possible increases in insurance prices.

Residents fear that the council might lack the resources needed to properly regulate the plant. A business owner questioned the storage capacity, noting that it was higher than initially agreed. Officers will seek advice to enforce rules and limit hydrogen storage, capped at 3.6 tonnes each day. Experts did not object to the plan this time, leading to an 11 to 2 council vote in favor of approval. The Welsh Government now decides whether the project continues.