For immediate release
Rt Hon David Blunkett, MP for Sheffield Brightside and Hillsborough, has taken a tour of ITM Power, the business in his constituency at the cutting-edge of innovative technological developments aimed at reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels.
The company has pioneered an electrolysis process which produces hydrogen from water rather than natural gas – and which is now used in experimental programmes aimed at transforming this cheap, non-polluting and entirely renewable energy source for powering commercial and private vehicles.
In a briefing by ITM Power staff, Mr Blunkett was told that the most immediate practical use of the technology will be for commercial vehicles used for delivering goods, which will be able to return to a depot each night for refuelling which, unlike battery power, will take only a few moments. This leads to much greater fuel efficiency – and the saving of money that goes with it.
Mr Blunkett said: “I have promised to make representations to both the Energy and Climate Change Secretary and the Transport Secretary about what I have seen at ITM Power.
“It is crucial that companies such as ITM Power receive support for their innovative work, at a time when both of these government departments are looking to maintain some kind of commitment to the reduction of carbon emissions, whilst at the same time engaging in draconian cuts to investment.”
ITM Power’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Graham Cooley, said: “We were delighted to have had David Blunkett visiting ITM. The potential for Sheffield to be at the forefront of the UK’s green collar jobs and R&D growth is clear and we hope that the Government will support and encourage us with its policies.
“David’s support in the House of Commons will be very important. Where this city led in the first industrial revolution, we are in no doubt that it can lead in the green energy revolution of the future. We certainly intend to play our part.”
ENDS
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