Government must not overlook hydrogen network infrastructure
A new report, ‘A hydrogen vision for the UK’, which explains how hydrogen could play its part in decarbonisation, alongside electrification, and keep UK businesses competitive has been launched by the Energy Networks Association (ENA).
The report features fully updated and detailed maps of what the rollout of the UK’s hydrogen infrastructure could look like in the years ahead. The maps describe how hydrogen infrastructure could expand over the next 30 years from initial clusters centred on particular industries and pilot sites, to an integrated network serving industry, homes, businesses, power generation and some transport applications by 2050.
The report also features five pledges from the UK’s gas network operators to make this vision a reality.
They are:
Play a lead role in delivering against the UK’s hydrogen ambitions
Conduct further research and testing, in an open and transparent manner
Engage with consumers across our networks on delivering net zero
Work collaboratively with all stakeholders across the sector using a ‘whole system’ approach
Invest in both developing a skilled workforce for the future and a UK supply chain
As the UK makes its net zero transition, hydrogen could provide between 20-35% of energy demand by 2050, supporting the delivery of climate and security goals. The report asks the government to show the same commitment to hydrogen network infrastructure development as it has shown to hydrogen production, expedite the development of critical business models for transport and storage, make key policy decisions around blending and hydrogen-ready boilers, and ensure that the planned Future System Operator is given the right tools and mandate to deliver its part in the hydrogen vision.
James Earl, Director of Gas, Energy Networks Association, said, “If we are to hit the government’s decarbonisation targets, secure energy investment in an increasingly competitive global market and protect long-term energy security for customers then the government needs to make rapid progress across both renewables and hydrogen deployment.
“Gas network operators are ready to invest, innovate and deliver this vision for hydrogen’s role in the UK energy system, but we need certainty from government to let them plan with confidence. Our gas network members pledge to work collaboratively with government, the regulator, businesses and the communities they serve to explore and deliver the significant benefits that hydrogen can have to the energy system, industry, consumers and the UK economy.”