Hydrogen Transition

for a Whisky Distillery 

Client: Large Japanese Corporate (via Scottish Government Programme)

Industry: Industrial Decarbonisation / Food & Beverage

Location: Scotland, UK

Status: Concept/Pre-Front End Engineering Design (FEED) Review, RFI & RFP Support 

Challenge 

As part of a broader Scottish Government initiative to decarbonise whisky production, the client is seeking to convert a traditional distillery to hydrogen power. The goal is to trial the replacement of natural gas with hydrogen in live industrial processes — without compromising safety, operational continuity, or brand integrity. 

      Our Approach 

      Our team leveraged both hydrogen sector expertise and a deep understanding of industrial delivery environments. Operating under the Innovation EES banner, our consultants were engaged to: 

      Peer review preliminary engineering design specification for hydrogen conversion 

      Identify gaps in technical planning, safety assumptions, and system integration 

      Facilitate a discreet RFI and RFP supplier selection process, ensuring client anonymity and robust competition 

      Connect with UK hydrogen engineering specialists to validate commercial and technical pathways

      Outcomes 

      • A revised, practical hydrogen transition plan tailored to the distillery’s layout and energy usage 
      • A successful tender process resulting in a capable supplier being selected to develop the final delivery plan 
      • A foundation for broader rollout across the whisky sector, with insights now feeding into other hydrogen programmes in Scotland and Wales 

      Legacy & Learnings

      This project is one of the first in the UK to explore the direct use of hydrogen as a process fuel in beverage production. It reinforced the value of early-stage programme definition and independent review — ensuring that visionary decarbonisation goals translate into fundable, buildable projects. 

      Client Feedback  

      “… we wanted to say a really big thank you for your excellent support and guidance through our FEED/EPC contracting journey, including today’s significant milestone of issuing the FEED RFP. Your support has been very much appreciated and we are looking forward to continue working with you through the FEED contracting process…“

      Programme Director

      This project showcases our ability to swiftly deploy technical expertise, challenge assumptions, and drive clarity in complex hydrogen transitions, enabling clients to pioneer decarbonisation within heritage industries and lead in the emerging low-carbon economy.

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