Pioneering Study on Integrating Hydrogen Refuelling Stations into the UK Gas Network
Key Ideas
  • Costain and Wales & West Utilities (WWU) team up for a study exploring hydrogen refuelling stations' integration into the UK's gas network, driven by the rising demand for zero-emissions vehicles.
  • The study, funded by Ofgem, aims to address the lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, with a focus on heavy-duty vehicles and potential conversion of existing petrol stations.
  • WWU's HyDrive initiative seeks to identify ways the gas network could support hydrogen refuelling, with hopes of paving the way for widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and a net-zero gas network by 2040.
  • The UK government's decision to support blending hydrogen into natural gas distribution networks and the industry's view of utilizing the existing gas infrastructure for hydrogen transmission are key drivers in this pioneering study.
Construction and engineering firm Costain has been chosen by Wales & West Utilities (WWU) to lead a study investigating the integration of hydrogen refuelling stations into the UK's existing natural gas network. The study, supported by Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, comes as the demand for zero-emissions vehicles is increasing. Hydrogen-powered vehicles are seen as a potential solution for decarbonizing transportation, especially for heavy-duty vehicles with high daily mileage. WWU's HyDrive initiative aims to address the lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in Wales and Southwest England, with a focus on supporting hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Costain will consult stakeholders, model future demands, and recommend locations for hydrogen refuelling. The study will also explore the cost implications of supporting hydrogen technology. The goal is to enable the collaboration between gas distribution networks, hydrogen producers, and refuelling infrastructure providers to establish the necessary infrastructure for hydrogen refuelling. The study's findings are expected to have broader applications beyond the initial region and could accelerate the industry's path to net zero emissions. The UK government's decision to allow blending hydrogen into the natural gas distribution network further supports the feasibility of utilizing existing gas infrastructure for hydrogen transmission. WWU's plans include transforming its entire gas network to be net-zero-ready by 2040 with significant investments. Costain is engaging with petrol and service station providers for input into the study as the initiative progresses.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2024 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.