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If given the go-ahead, the energy research centre, will be developed in Fife as part of Scotland's drive to become a global centre of excellence in the field of renewable energy.

The planning application was submitted to Fife Council, for consideration by the planning committee by Scottish Enterprise Fife in a partnership including Alsherra Investments and the Hydrogen Office Ltd.

The facility will house a novel hydrogen production system which has the potential to become a world-leading renewable energy solution that will not only reduce the impact of climate change but will reduce Scotland's future dependence on imported energy.

Willie Johnston, director of strategic projects at Scottish Enterprise Fife, said:
"Renewable energy is an area in which Scotland already has a growing reputation for excellence. It is becoming one of the world's fastest growing sectors in which Scotland has a considerable presence with the potential for momentous development.

"The Energy Centre is one of a number of potential projects earmarked for the emerging energy hub at Methil and we are confident that, if given the green light, the project will deliver significant economic benefit not only for Fife, but for Scotland as a whole."

The eagerly anticipated project will become one of the world's first fully integrated alternative energy projects combining well proven renewable energy technologies (wind and geothermal source heat pumps) with hydrogen and fuel cell energy storage technologies. The project will use surplus renewable electricity to convert tap water into hydrogen, a sustainable means of storing energy that has important environmental and economic benefits for Scotland.

The submission of planning documents comes after a series of project briefing sessions held with local residents, councillors and local MSP, Tricia Marwick.