Supporting the development of hydrogen infrastructure

Hydrogen is emerging as a critical part of the UK’s transition to a low-carbon energy system. From production and storage through to transport and end use, hydrogen projects present significant opportunities, alongside complex regulatory, safety and commercial challenges.

We work with developers, investors, landowners and public bodies involved in hydrogen projects at every stage. Our role is to help you structure projects that are deliverable, compliant and attractive to investment, while managing risk and supporting long-term operational success.

Legal advice for every stage of your hydrogen project

  • Early-stage clarity: We support you from feasibility and concept development, helping you understand regulatory pathways, land requirements and commercial options before significant capital is committed.
  • Regulatory and safety focus: Hydrogen projects sit within evolving regulatory and safety frameworks. We help you interpret current requirements, plan for change and engage confidently with regulators and statutory bodies.
  • Commercially grounded advice: We structure joint ventures, funding arrangements and supply agreements that reflect the realities of emerging hydrogen markets and protect your long-term interests.
  • Practical project support: From land access and planning to construction and operation, we provide hands-on support that helps keep projects moving and helps avoid unnecessary delay.

Working with you to deliver the next generation of hydrogen projects

Whether you are developing your first hydrogen scheme or scaling a portfolio of assets, we provide clear, practical and committed support. Our aim is to help you deliver hydrogen projects that are safe, compliant and ready for long-term success.

For tailored advice on your hydrogen project, contact us today >

Expertise across the hydrogen value chain

Hydrogen production

We advise on many differing hydrogen production projects. Our support covers site selection, land agreements, planning strategy, grid and water considerations, regulatory compliance and contractual frameworks for construction and operation.

Distribution and transport

We recognise the importance of hydrogen pipeline, transport and logistics projects, advising on statutory powers, land access, safety obligations and interface with existing energy and transport infrastructure. We help clients manage regulatory risk while maintaining project momentum.

Storage and infrastructure

From above-ground storage to underground and repurposed assets, we advise on the planning, safety and regulatory requirements associated with hydrogen storage. Our team supports asset development, funding, risk allocation and long-term operational arrangements.

Regulatory and safety compliance

Hydrogen projects require careful management of health and safety, environmental regulation and emerging policy frameworks. We provide clear advice on compliance obligations, consenting routes and engagement with regulators to help projects progress with confidence.

Joint ventures and investment structures

We work with developers, investors and public sector partners to structure joint ventures, funding arrangements and commercial partnerships. Our focus is on creating clear, balanced structures that support collaboration, manage risk and enable projects to scale.

Why choose Shakespeare Martineau?

  • Our team offer prompt and professional service, whether through in-person meetings or virtual consultations, you can trust that our advice will be timely and professional, helping you feel confident in your legal matters, every step of the way
  • We provide advice that is not only pragmatic and quick but also easy to understand. Every lawyer in our firm is approachable, helpful, and committed to offering reliable legal solutions, making the process straightforward for clients
  • Our clear and easily understandable approach has kept clients coming back for years, knowing they can depend on us for comprehensive legal support time and time again
  • Our clients regularly highlight the exceptional expertise and professionalism of our lawyers. Our team cares deeply about every aspect of your case, ensuring you receive a thorough and attentive service
Legal500_White
multilaw-white

What sets our hydrogen infrastructure expertise apart

Deep understanding of emerging energy markets

We work across hydrogen, renewables and wider energy infrastructure, giving us insight into how hydrogen projects fit within the broader energy system.

Support across the full project lifecycle

From early concept and funding through to delivery and operation, we provide consistent support at every stage.

Regulatory confidence in a changing landscape

We help you understand today’s rules while planning for future regulatory development, reducing uncertainty and protecting investment.

Commercially realistic advice

Our approach reflects the evolving nature of hydrogen markets, helping you make decisions that are both ambitious and deliverable.

Practical, solutions-focused delivery

When challenges arise, we focus on resolving issues, maintaining progress and supporting constructive engagement with stakeholders.

Meet our hydrogen infrastructure team

See More Team Members

Building a responsible business

Our commitment to sustainability and social impact

We are an accredited B Corporation that is committed to driving positive change in our communities, minimising our impact on the environment, and ensuring an all inclusive diverse and supportive culture for our people.

Wherever you are on your journey, our hydrogen infrastructure specialists are here to answer any questions you might have

If you’d like to speak to a member of our team, please fill out the enquiry form. We will aim to reply to your query within 2 hours

Need to talk to someone sooner? You can call use at the number below

Call Us: 0330 024 0333

hydrogen infrastructure FAQs

Our latest hydrogen infrastructure articles and content

The CMA shows it is serious about regulating Green Claims

Energy
read more >
ASA updated guidance on use of terms “carbon neutral” and “net zero”
Energy
read more >
What are the options for the consolidation of special purpose vehicles (SPV’s) for universities?
Corporate Restructuring & Insolvency
read more >
Electric vehicles – vying for first place in the new greener future
Corporate & Commercial
read more >

See more guides >