Wood awarded FEED contract to decarbonise Speyside’s whisky industry

Wood has been awarded the Front-End Engineering Design (FEED) for Speyside’s Hydrogen project, by Storegga.

The Speyside Hydrogen project is set to play a key role in reducing the carbon emissions of Moray’s renowned distillers, with Moray home to more than 50 distilleries. With the potential to produce up to 25 tonnes of electrolytic green hydrogen daily, the project aims to reduce CO₂ emissions by over 50,000 tonnes annually. This aligns with the Scottish Whisky Association’s goal of achieving a carbon-neutral whisky industry by 2040, while safeguarding jobs within the sector.

Christina Smitton, Speyside Hydrogen Opportunity Manager at Storegga, said: “Awarding Wood the FEED contract is a significant milestone for Speyside Hydrogen. Moray is rightly proud of its whisky heritage and now the industry has the chance to secure its Net Zero future with a project that boasts excellent access to renewable energy, robust transport infrastructure, and crucial supply chain expertise."

FEED is important for setting out the detailed plan and design for a project before construction begins. Wood’s responsibilities include the development of comprehensive engineering designs for the hydrogen production facility, the creation of detailed project schedules, risk assessments, and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations. FEED began in January and is set for completion by the end of summer 2025, marking a significant step toward the realisation of the project.

David Swallow, Vice President Business Development, UK, Norway & Africa at Wood added, “We are delighted to have been chosen by Storegga to deliver the FEED for this groundbreaking project. Wood’s extensive experience, capabilities, and innovative solutions in green hydrogen uniquely position us to excel in this emerging market. Our talented team will collaborate closely with Storegga to decarbonise one of Scotland’s most iconic industries, ensuring its sustainability and alignment with Scotland’s Net Zero ambitions.”

Scotland’s whisky industry, which supports 41,000 jobs in Scotland and contributes £7.1 billion GVA to the UK economy, is energy-intensive, with scope 1 and 2 emissions measuring over 600,000 tonnes of CO₂ in 2022. Green hydrogen, recognised by the Scottish Government as a vital clean energy solution, offers a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, enabling distilleries to significantly reduce their environmental impact while maintaining production levels.

Storegga has assembled a collaborative team, known as the Moray Hydrogen Steering Group to support and guide hydrogen developments such as the Speyside Hydrogen project. The group includes Mott MacDonald, Moray Council, Highlands and Islands Enterprise and the University of Highlands and Islands. The Steering Group coordinates the development of local skills and supply chain capabilities, essential hydrogen infrastructure, including production facilities, refuelling stations and fleet conversions. Efforts are underway with Wood to ensure that where possible the necessary skills for the project’s construction are sourced locally.

In August 2024, the Scottish Government announced £3.1 million in funding for Speyside Hydrogen in recognition of the socio-economic benefit the project seeks to bring to the region including circa 100 new jobs associated with a fully buildout Regional Hydrogen Hub. Storegga has matched this investment, bringing the total project funding to well over £6.2 million to date.

Speyside Hydrogen is committed to supporting the Scottish whisky industry to reach a greener and more sustainable future, protecting an iconic Scottish export and a key part of the nation’s heritage.