Scotland has the potential to become a key exporter of hydrogen that has the potential to be its greatest industrial opportunity since oil and gas, according to a government minister.

SNP minister Gillian Martin has published its first plan to make Scotland a key global player in the sector buy 2030 and has has set out a strategy, including investing in the production, transport and storage of hydrogen.

The report, A Trading Nation: Realising Scotland’s Hydrogen Potential – A Plan for Exports, calls for the creation of regional hydrogen hubs and improving the country’s infrastructure. It says there is scope for hydrogen pipelines between Scotland and mainland Europe.

Evidence compiled by the government suggests Scotland could deliver up to 3.3 million tonnes of green hydrogen per year by 2045 – the energy equivalent of around 90% of Scotland’s total current energy demand.

The export plan complements actions in the Green Industrial Strategy and the Hydrogen Action Plan to develop this new, growth energy sector.

A report from PwC found that 3.3% of all jobs advertised in the UK over the past year were green, up from 2.3% in 2023 – the equivalent of 23,000 jobs in Scotland.

Offshore Energies UK (OEUK) says Scotland’s new hydrogen export strategy can build on the nation’s industrial strengths and unlock a £93 billion export opportunity over the next ten years.

Ms Martin, who is standing in for young mum and Energy Secretary Mairi McAllan, unveiled the plan during a visit to Hydrasun, a company which designs, makes and installs hydrogen refuellers and associated parts.

Ms Martin said: “Hydrogen is one of Scotland’s greatest industrial opportunities since oil and gas was discovered and we have the environment, skills, knowledge, and experience to become a driving force behind the growth of the hydrogen sector in Europe and beyond.

“This plan focuses on the significant international trade opportunities presented by hydrogen and sets out the key steps required to secure and maximise the economic benefits.

“It provides the government, industry and investors with clarity in the direction we must all move in, with pace, if Scotland is to build a sustainable and successful hydrogen economy – whilst helping to deliver a just transition for our energy sector

“Although the full economic potential of hydrogen is yet to be realised, Hydrasun is a great example of how Scottish businesses are already leading the way in the hydrogen sector.”

Dr Stuart Mitchell, director of Hydrasun, a D2Zero company, said: “We have a strong track record as an exporter, delivering hydrogen systems across Europe and Scandinavia.

“Our expanding footprint demonstrates the growing demand for Scottish hydrogen expertise overseas. Scotland’s proximity to key markets like Germany and the Netherlands provides the opportunity to be at the forefront of hydrogen exports.

“Continued support from the Scottish Government, through agencies like Scottish Enterprise, has enabled Hydrasun to accelerate its growth, expand into new markets, and deliver innovative solutions.

“Collaboration across industry sectors, governments, and communities is essential to fully realise hydrogen’s potential. Together, we can position Scotland as a global leader in hydrogen innovation and sustainability.”