Hydrogen as a renewable energy source is quickly growing in popularity, as more efficient and cheaper methods of production are being discovered.
We recently reviewed the core areas where these changes are happening, and how cost effective hydrogen as a renewable source could become widely available by 2030. That said, the National Grid is planning a test run for hydrogen that could see the introduction come much sooner.
A £10 million plan has been announced for a facility to be built in the North West of England to test how hydrogen could be used primarily for heating homes. Heating had been suggested as one of the primary uses for hydrogen as a product – similar sectors have been difficult to decarbonise as a result of the importance of the gas networks in the country. A successful trial here could be crucial in efforts to deliver a low carbon solution.
The test will be kept in a controlled environment, entirely separate from the main national grid to ensure there won’t be any risk to the existing network. If funding is provided by Ofgem, the company plans to start construction in 2021, with the testing scheduled to begin the year after. This would entail a partnership with Northern Gas Networks and Belgium’s gas network, Fluxys.
The project director for Hydrogen at the National Grid, Anthony Green, stated “If we truly want to reach a net zero decarbonised future, we need to replace methane with green alternatives like hydrogen.”
However, there are still some obstacles to overcome, as noted in some of our recent posts. Costs still need to substantially reduce for it to be a viable alternative, and methods to produce hydrogen cleanly also need to be expanded upon to increase feasibility. Given 85% of homes and 40% of the UK’s power is currently supplied by gas, however, there is certainly a huge opportunity for hydrogen to be successful.
Utility Trade offers a whole host of renewable energy resources – all of which are cost-efficient and environmentally friendly. Our experienced Account Managers can guide you through the process and help you to decide which is the best solution for you. Get in touch today to find out more.
