Congratulations to the winning team from Rougemont School on taking first place in the 2025 HyBont Green Hydrogen Project Schools Competition! Leoni, Simmin, Ella, and Rosie impressed the judges with a compelling and well-researched proposal on how hydrogen can decarbonise local events in Wales—showcasing both their technical understanding and passion for sustainability. Their project focused on using green hydrogen for transportation and power for a local Welsh agricultural show, outlining how to produce, store, and deploy the fuel effectively. They presented their ideas to a packed room at the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero in Whitehall this week, representing the next generation of leaders in the green transition. These young women also powerfully demonstrated the role of women in STEM—leading with confidence, creativity, and a clear vision for a cleaner future. Huge thanks to the Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens and our judging panel: Tonia Antoniazzi MP, Tanya Foxall, Gary Corbett, Dr Jenifer Baxter and Keith M Dunn OBE CMLJ. And special thanks to Marubeni Europower, Japanese Embassy Paro Konar, and the team at Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions for their support and encouragement. #GreenHydrogen #STEMEducation #WomenInSTEM #FutureLeaders #Sustainability #ClimateAction #HyBont #Decarbonisation #NetZeroWales #CleanEnergy
A Day to Remember: Our Trip to London After Winning the Green Hydrogen Challenge
After winning the Green Hydrogen Challenge, as a group we had the incredible opportunity to travel to London to present our project to leading figures in business and government looking for new sustainable energy solutions.
The day began with a special pick-up from school by Tanya and Chris from Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions, a hydrogen production company — not your usual transport, but hydrogen-powered cars, which felt like an apt way to begin a sustainability-focused day.
We were taken to the train station and caught a train to London Paddington. The journey passed quickly as we played cards and chatted about the exciting day ahead. On arrival, we took a moment to stop for a photo with the Paddington Bear statue — a light-hearted start before a day of big responsibilities.
Next, we travelled on the Underground to Marubeni UK Headquarters, where we were welcomed by the CEO Timoki Nishino and other senior members of staff. As we stepped into the boardroom, it was quite daunting knowing we were about to present to such experienced professionals. But once we started, we became confident about our methods to decarbonise the event of Usk Show. We presented our green hydrogen solution, answered a series of in-depth questions, and then had lunch while discussing our ideas and interests in sustainability further.
From there, we walked through London, passing St Paul’s Cathedral on our way to Whitehall and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. There, we met with Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, Tonia Antoniazzi, MP for Gower, Keith M Dunn OBE, the Honorary Consul for Japan in Wales, and other civil servants and policymakers.
We delivered our presentation on using hydrogen powered resources in the Usk Show. We felt slightly nervous beforehand, but were reassured by the supportive and interested audience. We answered questions confidently and also asked some of our own — including how the government plans to support young innovators and make sustainable energy a national priority, as well as the benefits of using hydrogen rather than other renewable electricity sources.
Afterwards, we had the chance to see some iconic London landmarks, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, and the Mayor’s residence. We were treated to fresh strawberries and enjoyed a ride on the London Eye, taking in the city’s skyline from above.
To round off the day, we travelled to Piccadilly and had a delicious meal at an Italian restaurant before heading back to Newport by train. We returned tired, but proud — it had been an amazing and inspiring experience that we’ll never forget, and we are eternally grateful to have been given this opportunity.
Rosie, Leonie, Simmin and Elle
