SSE Thermal in partnership with Equinor asked 3DW to create an engaging 3D visualisation of the proposed Aldbrough Hydrogen Pathfinder (AHP) project. This innovative facility situated at the existing Aldbrough Gas Storage plant aims to play a crucial role in the UK's journey towards a net-zero future by showcasing how hydrogen can contribute to flexible low-carbon power generation.
To bring this vision to life, the 3DW team built a detailed digital environment that would aid in design, planning and community engagement, all while explaining the details for a diverse group of stakeholders, from local residents to government officials. Our team crafted an immersive 64km² study area, utilising high-resolution 5m terrain data and 25cm aerial imagery. The model features a handy "before and after" toggle, enabling users to seamlessly switch between the current site and the proposed AHP infrastructure with just a click.
The 3D application showcases intricate modelling of the AHP site, including key structures like the electrolyser building, compressor building, water treatment plant and related electrical compounds. In the broader study area, buildings are depicted as massing block structures with pitched roofs. To help users navigate and address heritage considerations, we incorporated high-detail photographic imagery of notable landmarks at six key locations, such as St. Bartholomew’s Church and Aldbrough Village Hall complete with a user-friendly drop-down menu for easy access to these viewpoints.
To ensure a realistic portrayal of the local landscape, the model features "cut-in" major roads for enhanced clarity and 3D representations of trees and hedges. A seasonal toggle allows users to switch between summer and winter foliage, effectively illustrating the benefits of natural screening throughout the year. Additionally, 3DW delivered a range of multimedia assets, including a branded 5-minute video fly-through with text captions and a Virtual Exhibition portal, making project information readily available to the public.
