Energy firms complete UK’s first ‘hydrogen blending’ trial to power grid | Energy industry

Energy companies have injected green hydrogen into the UK’s gas grid and used the low-carbon gas to generate electricity; This was a landmark development for the UK’s climate ambitions.

For the first time in the UK, a 2% green hydrogen mixture has been injected into the gas grid and mixed with conventional gas to feed the Brigg power station in North Lincolnshire, which produces electricity for the power system.

Blending hydrogen into the gas system has already been carried out in controlled environments using decommissioned sections of the transmission system, but the first ‘real life’ testing in the UK was carried out by Centrica, the parent company of British Gas, and National Gas, which owns Britain’s gas transmission system.

The companies believe the success of the test demonstrates the potential of hydrogen, which does not produce carbon dioxide when burned, to reduce harmful emissions in areas of the economy where other low-carbon options may not be available.

Green hydrogen is produced by splitting water with minimal emissions using electricity from renewable energy sources. Although there is fierce debate over the use of electrically powered heat pumps, with claims that they are much more efficient, they are seen as key to decarbonising energy-intensive industries.

GMB union general secretary Gary Smith said: “The success of this trial is an important moment for our country’s energy future. It highlights the vital role innovation in our industrial hubs can play in creating high-skilled unionized jobs in working-class communities, which is a key part of any credible plan to meet our net zero obligations.”

Centrica and National Gas are calling on the government to support the use of up to 5% hydrogen blends in the UK’s gas system.

Jon Butterworth, chief executive of National Gas, said: “This is another key milestone in Britain’s hydrogen journey, showing how blending can power our power stations and unlock new investment opportunities for producers.

“By using our existing National Gas infrastructure and pipes, which have served the UK reliably for decades, we can power the next era of clean British energy and industry. Working with industry and government, we are proud to be leading this effort to make hydrogen a cornerstone of our energy system.”