An Australian energy company specialising in hydrogen storage solutions has opened its first UK office in Harwich, Essex.

Rux Energy will use the new office as a hub for its operations in the UK and Europe, facilitating closer collaboration with key partners and stakeholders in the region.

It will also assist in the development and deployment of Rex Energy's patented nanoporous materials, which are designed to enable efficient, safe, and low-cost hydrogen storage.

“We are thrilled to establish our European presence in Harwich, a location that aligns perfectly with our strategic goals and commitment to sustainability,” said Dr Jehan Kanga, founder and CEO of Rux Energy.

“This new office will allow us to better serve our customers and partners, and help accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source.”

The Harwich office is situated at the centre of Freeport East, one of the UK’s new freeports which has a green hydrogen hub as its heart to supports the UK’s decarbonisation ambitions.

Steve Beel, chief executive of Freeport East, said: “Since signing our MoU with Rux Energy earlier this year, we’re delighted to have been able to support them to establish themselves in the UK, including securing new funding to deliver their ground-breaking hydrogen storage technology in collaboration with a range of UK partners.

“Freeport East is rapidly establishing itself as a go-to location for those innovating in green hydrogen and we are confident that with Rux opening their new office in Harwich, it will further help us to build a cluster of progressive clean energy and maritime businesses in the local area.”

David Camerlengo, senior trade and investment commissioner for Austrade, said: “Austrade has been supporting Rux Energy with their international goals for 18 months and so we are delighted to see their ongoing development in UK now manifest itself into a tangible UK presence.

“Their storage solution is eye-catching for the hydrogen sector and, as a torchbearer for other Australian hydrogen innovators, we look forward to supporting their continued growth here in UK.”

Councillor Ivan Henderson, Tendring District Council (TDC) deputy leader and cabinet member for economic growth, regeneration and tourism, said: “I’m thrilled that Rux Energy has decided to make Harwich the home of its operations in the UK and Europe. Our ambition is to make Harwich and Bathside Bay a national leader in the green energy revolution, so we warmly welcome this innovative international enterprise to help us realise that goal."