In Conversation with Peter Cummings and Raffaella Ocone: Exploring the Future of Hydrogen

The transition to net zero is one of the most pressing challenges of our time, requiring innovative solutions and cross-sector collaboration. iNetZ+ is at the forefront of this effort, bringing together experts from Heriot-Watt University to tackle key areas such as hydrogen technology, circular materials, policy, and economics. In this Q&A, we speak with Peter Cummings and Raffaella Ocone, the leads of the iNetZ+ hydrogen theme, who share insights into the objectives of iNetZ+, the role of hydrogen in a sustainable energy future, and the importance of international collaboration in driving progress.

What are the primary objectives and challenges of iNetZ+, and how do your roles as theme leads contribute to its success?

Peter Cummings: iNetZ+ is a comprehensive initiative aiming to achieve net zero by leveraging Heriot-Watt University's extensive expertise, from fundamental science to applied industrial work. The project encompasses a broad range of topics, including hydrogen, materials, policy, economics, and social sciences. Our holistic approach integrates all these elements to tackle the challenges of transitioning to net zero. As theme leads, our roles involve coordinating research activities, fostering collaborations, and ensuring that our efforts align with the overarching goals of iNetZ+. I co-lead the hydrogen theme with Raffaella, focusing on advancing hydrogen technologies.

With the increasing focus on sustainable energy solutions, how do you see hydrogen playing a significant role, and what are the main hurdles to overcome in its widespread adoption?

Raffaella Ocone: Hydrogen is poised to be a crucial part of the future energy mix, particularly as an energy vector. In regions like Scotland, where renewable energy sources such as wind are abundant, hydrogen can serve as a storage medium for excess energy. However, we face significant challenges, especially in scaling up the production of green and blue hydrogen. The transition from grey hydrogen to more sustainable forms is complex and requires substantial technological advancements and infrastructure development. Overcoming these hurdles will be critical for the widespread adoption of hydrogen as a sustainable energy solution.

In what ways do you envision the work of iNetZ+ contributing to the global transition towards a hydrogen-based economy, and what role do academia and industry play in this transition?

Peter Cummings: iNetZ+ contributes by showcasing the extensive hydrogen research at Heriot-Watt University to the global community. We engage in various activities, such as workshops and collaborations with international delegations, to highlight our capabilities. Academia plays a crucial role in addressing not only the technical aspects of hydrogen but also the techno-economic and social dimensions. Our collaboration with industry is vital for translating research into practical applications. For instance, our partnership with the University of Houston through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) allows us to compare and learn from different regional approaches to hydrogen adoption, enhancing our strategies and solutions.

Speaking of the MOU with the University of Houston, how important are national and international collaborations in projects like iNetZ+, and what strategies are being employed to foster these partnerships?

Peter Cummings: International collaborations are essential for addressing global challenges like the transition to a hydrogen economy. The MOU with the University of Houston is just the beginning; we aim to establish more such partnerships worldwide. Our strategy involves engaging with various stakeholders, from other academic institutions to government bodies and industry leaders, to create a comprehensive and inclusive network. These collaborations enable us to share knowledge, leverage diverse expertise, and address region-specific challenges effectively.

Raffaella, congratulations on your recent appointment as the 84th President of IChemE. How do you plan to leverage this position to advance sustainable practices within the chemical engineering field?

Raffaella Ocone: Thank you. As President of IChemE, I aim to advocate for sustainable and responsible technologies within the chemical engineering community. My goal is to work with all members, including those in traditional industries like oil and gas, to promote a more sustainable approach. By leveraging the collective expertise and experiences of our members, we can develop and implement practices that are not only environmentally friendly but also economically viable. Collaboration and inclusivity will be key in advancing these sustainable practices across the field.

Could you elaborate on the collaborative efforts within iNetZ+’s hydrogen theme and how this collaboration is driving forward the development and application of hydrogen technologies?

Raffaella Ocone: Collaboration within the hydrogen theme of iNetZ+ is extensive and multifaceted. We engage with researchers across various disciplines, industries, and geographic regions to tackle the diverse challenges of hydrogen technology development. This includes working on improving materials for electrolysers, enhancing hydrogen storage solutions, and addressing socio-economic and policy issues. By integrating these efforts, we aim to create a robust and scalable hydrogen infrastructure. Additionally, our partnerships with institutions like the University of Houston help us learn from different approaches and apply best practices globally, driving forward the development and application of hydrogen technologies.

The work of iNetZ+ highlights the crucial role of interdisciplinary research and global partnerships in accelerating the transition to a net-zero future. With hydrogen set to play a pivotal role in the energy mix, overcoming technological and economic barriers is essential. Through collaboration between academia, industry, and policymakers, initiatives like iNetZ+ are paving the way for a more sustainable and scalable energy landscape.