ZeroAvia enters energy partnership with Scottish utility company

In addition, the companies state that ZeroAvia and ScottishPower intend to explore clean power requirements and hydrogen production infrastructure for potential ZeroAvia sites within ScottishPower’s distribution network areas in Scotland, North West England and North Wales.

“With the plethora of existing renewables, and many projects planned, Scotland has the chance to lead the UK in developing clean hydrogen supply,” says Sergey Kiselev, Chief Business Officer at ZeroAvia. “Working with leading energy companies like ScottishPower can help us overcome fuelling infrastructure challenges.”

ZeroAvia is based in Hollister, California, but according to the latest information, it appears to be open to a location in the British Isles. There is already a potential customer in the region. In November 2023, ZeroAvia announced an agreement with the Scottish-based airline Ecojet to supply up to 70 hydrogen-electric drives.

ZeroAvia is developing electric propulsion systems for aircraft in various performance classes, suitable for aircraft of different sizes. The electric drives can theoretically work with batteries or fuel cells as an energy source. Due to the range, ZeroAvia and many of the company’s customers favour fuel-cell-electric solutions.

The first test flight with the ZA600 drive (with 600 kW power) has already taken place, and aircraft with up to 20 seats will be put into service in 2025 with certification. The more powerful ZA2000 powertrain is still under development.

zeroavia.com, scottishpower.com