Cheshire Residents Encouraged to Share Views on Groundbreaking Hydrogen Pipeline Project
Key Ideas
- Cadent Gas proposes a 100km underground hydrogen pipeline in Cheshire to distribute low carbon hydrogen produced at Stanlow Manufacturing Complex.
- The HyNet North West project aims to produce, store, and distribute hydrogen, along with capturing and storing carbon from industrial sites.
- The consultation process, involving community feedback, aims to refine the project's design before submitting an application for consent in Spring 2025.
- The project is viewed as crucial for decarbonization efforts in the North West, job creation, and advancing towards achieving net zero emissions.
Residents in Cheshire are being called upon to participate in a consultation regarding a pioneering initiative by Cadent Gas for a new 100km underground hydrogen pipeline. The project, known as HyNet North West, is designed to facilitate the distribution of low carbon hydrogen generated mainly at the Stanlow Manufacturing Complex near Ellesmere Port to various industrial sites across the North West region. The pipeline will stretch through areas in Cheshire West such as Northwich and Chester, as well as parts of Halton and Warrington. While the pipeline will be primarily underground, it will require nine Hydrogen Above Ground Installations (HAGIs) and two Block Valve Installations (BVIs) along its route. The project's goal is to establish the UK's first 100% hydrogen network, contributing to efforts in decarbonizing the North West and progressing towards net zero emissions. Cadent Gas is seeking a Development Consent Order (DCO) from the Government, initiating a three-stage consultation process to gather feedback from local communities, authorities, and industry partners to further enhance the project's design. Project Director Rob Donovan emphasized the importance of community input in shaping the plans, highlighting the project's potential for job creation and environmental benefits. The consultation period, running until November 19, includes both in-person and online events to engage stakeholders and gather opinions on the project's detailed plans. The final application for consent is expected to be submitted in Spring 2025, with a decision anticipated in 2026, underscoring the long-term commitment and significance of this endeavor for the region's sustainability and economic development.