Social Implications

The adoption of hydrogen as a future sustainable fuel requires extensive related infrastructure development, most of which (at least initially) will be localised in clusters across the UK. This localisation may evoke diverse local interpretations by communities on the social, economic, and environmental impacts of built hydrogen infrastructure. Local communities are likely to view new projects as threat to local landscape, community safety, and domestic routine (cumulated over decades). Additional concerns regarding the costs related to switching to hydrogen technologies, severe disruptions due to lack of a reliable supply chain network, and fuel poverty may be raised, limiting government and stakeholder actions. Conversely, some may interpret these as economic opportunities to enable self-sufficiency, especially niche applications such as transport hubs, which cause minimal disruption, as compared to large projects such as gas pipelines, which have historically faced fierce opposition and condemnations.

Indeed, community risk perception is not always logical, and may be shaped by subjective views and situation control rather than informed decision making. The formation of hydrogen infrastructure in clusters, especially with diverse local communities such as those in the UK, creates entanglement of different ethnic or socio-economic groups towards a common risk, such as a hydrogen trial project. An of example of this may be seen from the recent UK government hydrogen trials. Village-scale hydrogen domestic heating trials at Whitby and Redcar were cancelled due to heavy criticism and opposition from the public over economic and safety concerns, yet trials at the Tees Valley continue. Varied responses to hydrogen and built infrastructure presents a significant challenge, where diverse communities may perceive technology based on authoritative and government goodwill, diverse cultural identities, and varied socio-economic backgrounds. Public knowledge regarding hydrogen technologies is limited, and highlighting and educating public opinions regarding environmental benefits may encourage positive perceptions.

In summation, regional hydrogen technology deployment requires intricate navigation of diverse socio-economic and cultural backgrounds, and severe opposition may be faced where these technologies impact the relations, identities, practices, and dynamic of the community. Hence, it is vital that public deliberation be included in hydrogen technology and infrastructure rollouts, and all stakeholders engage with local communities to build confidence in the role of hydrogen as the main enabler of a Net Zero Future.