By 2025, hydrogen will be injected into Britain’s primary gas pipeline as part of a race to get rid of fossil fuels and reach net zero.

In two years, between 2% and 5% of the fuel streaming through the country’s transmission network will be hydrogen, according to plans developed by national gas, the pipeline owner.

Hydrogen’s potential as a green, abundant, and efficient energy carrier offers promising opportunities for the decarbonisation goals of the UK. Using hydrogen instead of natural gas could significantly reduce the UK’s carbon emissions, bringing it closer to its 2050 net-zero goal.

This article examines the rationale, viability, and repercussions of converting the UK’s gas network to hydrogen.

Why hydrogen gas?

When hydrogen gas burns, it produces water, making it an environmentally favourable alternative to fossil fuels. Hydrogen, a highly efficient energy carrier derived from wind, solar, and biomass, is a significant participant in the renewable energy landscape.

Approximately 85% of British residences are already connected to the national grid, indicating that the UK has an extensive gas distribution infrastructure. This infrastructure can be modified to transport hydrogen, using existing assets and reducing the need for large-scale infrastructure investments.

It is more complex than flipping a switch to convert the gas network to hydrogen; technological obstacles can be overcome. The existing network of iron pipelines would need to be replaced with polyethene, which is more compatible with hydrogen.

This conversion has been ongoing for safety reasons but must be concluded before a nationwide switch to hydrogen.

Existing boilers and appliances intended for use with methane would also require replacement or modification. This would necessitate coordination across industries and households, posing logistical and financial obstacles.

Safety and acceptance by the public – Further useful information

The transition to a hydrogen gas network places a premium on public safety and acceptability. Hydrogen has distinct safety characteristics than natural gas; it is less dense, more flammable, and more likely to leak.

However, rudimentary studies, such as the hy4heat and h21 projects, suggest that hydrogen could be used in homes and businesses as safely as natural gas with the proper safety measures and regulations. Communicating these findings to the public will be essential to obtain support and acceptance.

Policy and expenditure

The conversion of the gas network to hydrogen necessitates substantial initial and continuous investment. Government assistance, business incentives, and explicit policy directives are essential to stimulate investment and encourage necessary research and development.

In its Hydrogen Strategy, published in 2022, the British government pledged to investigate the feasibility of a hydrogen gas infrastructure. However, a more detailed road map that includes concrete policies and commitments is required to realise this vision.

The way forward

A national conversion to a hydrogen gas network offers the UK a thrilling, even if complex, path to decarbonisation. Significantly reduced greenhouse gas emissions, increased energy security, and new industries and employment are among the potential benefits.

Overcoming technical obstacles, establishing clear safety guidelines, fostering public adoption, and supporting everything with robust policies and investments are essential for a successful implementation. 

Converting the gas network in the UK to a hydrogen system could be a game-changer in the struggle against climate change. It is a significant endeavour that requires vision, resolve, and a nation willing to embrace change. However, with good planning and execution, the transition to a hydrogen-based economy is possible.

Economic implications

The conversion of the gas network in the UK to hydrogen could have significant economic ramifications. Initial capital expenditures would be substantial due to the need for extensive research and development, infrastructure renovation, and new hydrogen production facilities.

However, these expenditures may be offset by long-term benefits. Developing a hydrogen economy could generate substantial new employment in the energy industry.

According to a report by the hydrogen taskforce, the hydrogen economy in the UK could be worth £18 billion by 2035 and support over 75,000 employees.

Environmental benefits

Environmental benefits are fundamental to the appeal of a hydrogen-based gas network. If the hydrogen used is produced via electrolysis using renewable energy, the entire process could be carbon-free, from production to consumption.

In addition, due to hydrogen’s versatility, the impact would extend beyond domestic heating. Hydrogen can be utilised in difficult-to-decarbonise sectors, such as heavy industry and transportation, thereby enhancing the overall potential for carbon reduction.

Carbon capture and storage function

Although green hydrogen is the ultimate objective, it represents a negligible portion of current hydrogen production due to high costs. Most hydrogen is derived from natural gas through a process that produces carbon dioxide.

However, when combined with Carbon capture and storage (CCS) technologies, it is possible to produce ‘blue’ hydrogen with minimal carbon emissions. Due to its depleted North Sea gas deposits, which can be repurposed for CO2 storage, the UK is well-positioned to take the lead in CCS. 

Final Thoughts

The transition to a hydrogen-based gas network is a bold and visionary step towards a low-carbon, sustainable future for the UK. Replacing the UK’s gas network with hydrogen is equivalent to switching to a cleaner, more environmentally friendly fuel.

It’s a significant step towards assisting the environment and lowering our carbon impact. While there may be obstacles, the goal is to make our energy system more environmentally friendly for a brighter future.