A major energy infrastructure project is being explored near Warmingham, Cheshire, which may be of interest to land owners and businesses across the wider region.
What is being proposed?
Energy company Uniper, working with British Salt, is investigating the development of a hydrogen storage facility in underground salt caverns.
- Up to 13 caverns could be created deep underground
- Total storage capacity of around 400 GWh of hydrogen
- The site would support the UK’s transition to low‑carbon energy
Hydrogen is expected to play a growing role in reducing emissions from industries such as steel, chemicals, transport, and power generation.
How would it work?
The scheme would use established technology:
- Caverns are formed by dissolving salt deposits underground (a process already used locally)
- Hydrogen gas is then stored safely in these sealed spaces
- The surrounding salt rock prevents leakage and allows storage under high pressure
This type of storage has been used safely for natural gas for many years.
Why this location?
The Warmingham/Cheshire area has:
- Suitable natural salt geology
- A long history of salt extraction and gas storage
- Existing energy infrastructure nearby
These factors make it one of the few areas in the UK capable of supporting large‑scale underground hydrogen storage.
Current progress
Since the project launched in 2025:
- Initial drilling work for two wells has begun
- Environmental and technical surveys are ongoing
- Early discussions have taken place with local stakeholders and community groups
What happens next?
The project is still at an early stage and requires significant planning approval.
Key milestones expected:
- 2026–2027: Further surveys and design work
- Early 2027: Public consultation period
- Late 2027: Planning application submission
- Early 2030s (if approved): Potential operation
Residents and stakeholders will have opportunities to comment and provide feedback as plans develop.
Further information
For more details or to sign up for updates:
- Website: https://uniperuk.consulting/salinae
- Email: info@salinae.co.uk
- Phone: 0800 3689 639
If your property is impacted by the scheme please contact Tom on 01829423183.