Costain Leading Study on Integrating Hydrogen Refuelling Stations into UK's Gas Network
Key Ideas
- Costain to lead a study exploring the integration of hydrogen refuelling stations into the UK's gas network funded by Ofgem.
- Research aims to make hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) a sustainable alternative to traditional vehicles due to similar refuelling processes.
- HyDrive initiative by Wales & West Utilities seeks to address the lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in Wales and southwest England.
- Study to provide insights on the economics of the technology implementation, impact on consumers, and collaboration between gas networks and hydrogen providers.
Costain, an infrastructure solutions company, has been chosen by Wales & West Utilities to lead a study investigating the integration of hydrogen refuelling stations into the UK's existing gas network. The research, funded by Ofgem, will explore leveraging the natural gas network for hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in anticipation of growing demand for zero emissions vehicles. The study focuses on making hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) a sustainable choice for heavy-duty vehicles with high daily mileage. The HyDrive initiative aims to tackle the lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure in Wales and southwest England. Costain's research will involve consulting regional stakeholders, forecasting future demands, and suggesting potential locations for converting petrol stations into hydrogen refuellers. The study will provide valuable insights on the technology's economics, impact on consumers, and foster collaboration between gas networks and hydrogen providers for long-term consumer savings in the energy transition. The sentiment in the article is positive, with key figures emphasizing the importance of hydrogen in decarbonisation efforts and Costain's expertise in handling hydrogen safely.