EnergyPathways (AIM: EPP) has launched engineering studies with KBR Inc and Hazer Group Ltd for its planned hydrogen and graphite production facilities in Barrow-in-Furness, marking a major step forward for the company’s flagship MESH project.
The studies are designed to advance development of facilities targeting 20,000 tonnes per annum of low-emission hydrogen and 60,000 tonnes per annum of graphite, leveraging Hazer’s innovative methane pyrolysis technology.
This milestone follows earlier agreements securing exclusive UK rights to Hazer’s technology and exploring the potential of graphite by-products, positioning EnergyPathways to become a key domestic producer of a material critical to batteries, EVs, and broader net-zero technologies.
The project has been designated nationally significant, granting access to a streamlined planning process. EnergyPathways aims to bring the facilities into operation by 2030, contributing to the UK’s energy transition by delivering affordable, low-emission hydrogen and helping secure a domestic supply of critical graphite aligned with the UK’s industrial strategy.
Ben Clube, CEO of EnergyPathways, commented:
“The commencement of engineering studies with the KBR and Hazer alliance underscores EnergyPathways’ commitment to partnering with tier-1 global leading companies to delivering innovative and affordable low-emission solutions vital for the UK’s energy transition, industrial strategy and national security.
“With alternative hydrogen production technologies such as blue and green hydrogen looking increasingly challenged by high production costs, EnergyPathways aims to develop a hydrogen production pathway and decarbonisation solution that could be more affordable to Britain’s taxpayers and energy consumers. EnergyPathways is targeting growth market opportunities in hydrogen-to-power and low-carbon ammonia production.
“A significant added benefit of EnergyPathways’ hydrogen production project is the associated graphite production. The UK government has identified graphite as a critical mineral essential to the nation’s energy transition and industrial strategy. With the UK 100% dependent on imports for its graphite needs, and China dominating global supply with over 80% of market share, the British government, and others such as the USA, are actively seeking to secure their own graphite supply chains.”
Hazer’s CEO and MD Glenn Corrie said:
“We’re delighted to see the EnergyPathways MESH project advancing rapidly, underpinned by its recognition as a nationally significant UK energy development. The EnergyPathways MESH project is strategically important and the integration of Hazer’s low-cost hydrogen technology with the co-production of a low-emissions critical mineral represents a genuine gamechanger for the UK’s energy transition plan. Hazer and KBR are excited to commence this concept study to support EnergyPathways progress to its next major milestone.”
