Hydrogen on the gas network
The current regulations for gas in the UK restrict hydrogen levels to 0.1%. This level was set based on the supply of North Sea Gas which has naturally low hydrogen levels. However, hydrogen in the UK isn’t new. It was the main part (40-60%) of old ‘Town’ gas, which was used in the UK before North Sea Gas.
HyDeploy aims to be the first project in the UK to inject hydrogen into the modern gas network. Before a live trial can go ahead, the Health & Safety Executive must grant a special exemption to the existing regulations for the delivery of blended hydrogen and normal gas.
Hydrogen in the pipes
A national programme of gas mains pipe replacement is currently underway, upgrading iron pipes to durable plastic pipes.
Although these new plastic mains gas pipes are suitable for transporting hydrogen, it is important to make sure that all the different materials found on the network work safely with hydrogen. HyDeploy is carrying out extensive research on these materials. This builds on previous UK and international research and will form an important part of the evidence presented to the Health and Safety Executive in seeking approval to undertake the live trial.