Under the partnership, IAAPS will support GKN’s H2GEAR programme which seeks to develop a megawatt-scale cryogenic electric drive system using PEM fuel cells, by delivering key aspects of testing and validation at its new R&I centre near Bristol, UK with both green hydrogen production and liquid hydrogen storage.

Read more: IAAPS facility to start making green hydrogen early 2023

The programme aims to deliver a liquid hydrogen propulsion system for sub-regional aircraft, that could be scaled up to larger aircraft. Supported by £27m ($32.8m) from the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), GKN and its industrial partners have matched the funding.

In September 2021, ATI revealed a fleet of concept zero-emission aircraft, identifying liquid hydrogen as having the “highest potential” as the future fuel in the aviation sector.

Read more: Liquid hydrogen has more potential than battery and ammonia in aviation, says ATI as it reveals new fleet of concept aircraft

H2GEAR not only hopes to make strides in the development of commercially viable hydrogen technologies for aviation, but to also contribute towards the UK Government’s Hydrogen Strategy which aims to establish a low-carbon hydrogen sector by 2030, as it drives towards meeting its Net Zero targets.

“Hydrogen technology is an essential component in the successful and rapid decarbonisation of the aviation industry, and we are delighted to establish this strategic partnership with IAAPS,” said Max Brown Vice-President of Technology at GKN Aerospace. “The collaboration will allow GKN to further develop our expertise in zero carbon propulsion technologies, using IAAPS’ state-of-the-art hydrogen and propulsion research capabilities, therefore fast-tracking the validation and delivery of clean, hydrogen-powered aircraft.”

Read more: Plans for hydrogen-powered aircraft revealed – and it could be in service by 2026

Tony Reid, Commercial Director at IAAPS, added, “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to support GKN Aerospace’s first hydrogen propulsion system for sub-regional aircraft and to play a key part in the delivery of the next generation of innovative, sustainable powertrain technologies.

“These technologies will have far reaching impact in achieving Net Zero targets and reducing the global reliance on carbon, not just in aviation, but also across the wider transport industry.”

A Successful Ecosystem for Green Hydrogen – Iceland

It is becoming ever clearer that the entire green hydrogen ecosystem requires alignment. Hydrogen’s potential, performance, and safety are proven. Green hydrogen is widely accepted as a core pathway to Net Zero, yet the key levers in the transition are not yet in-sync.

For these reasons, H2 View is launching An Ecosystem for Green Hydrogen, a two and a half day summit in Reykjavík, Iceland on February 28 to March 2, 2023, devoted to thought leadership, insights, and actionable takeaways for the green hydrogen ecosystem.

In a world full of distractions and technical overload, we need inspiring places to refresh our minds and bodies. The power of Iceland lies in its nature, culture, and energy. These elements serve as the perfect backdrop for a memorable and effective event at the world renowned Harpa Centre.

The summit promises to tackle all sides of the energy ecosystem, from wind and solar power requirements, through to additionality, water sustainability, electrolyser technologies, and the investment and policy climate. The 2.5 day event is split over six sessions, delegates will hear from speakers representing all strands of the hydrogen value chain in a bid to unravel key issues in the industry, and where it can make some headway.

You can find more information at h2-viewevents.com.