Part of the debate – in the Senedd at 6:21 pm on 18 January 2023.
Thank you very much, Janet, for giving me a minute to contribute in a very interesting debate. There are a couple of early-stage proposals within the Bridgend area, actually, for hydrogen projects, green hydrogen projects. And indeed, hydrogen might well have a role to play in our transitioning to a greener economy. But I want to make two points. The first is that we have to make sure that hydrogen does not displace our investment in renewables—that's very important, to make clear that point. But the main point I want to make is this: if we are to develop hydrogen proposals, particularly those that are close to or within communities, then we need to bring those communities along, explain the technology very well, explain the safety aspects very well. Because if there's misinformation, or lack of engagement, then those communities will be understandably worried about what this means for them. So, my appeal within this debate, to anybody who's proposing developing hydrogen projects in or near to communities, is to engage properly with those communities who will be affected to explain the technology and what it may mean for them. Diolch yn fawr iawn.