Busting the hydrogen myths

Event Date: 23/05/2023 2:00 pm

Busting the hydrogen myths

The potential role of hydrogen in domestic heating has progressed from the theoretical to detailed engagement on what this would mean in reality. This webinar will explore learnings from the hydrogen village trials and how gas networks are refining their approaches to engaging with the public on the decarbonisation of heat.

The potential role of hydrogen in domestic heating has progressed from the theoretical to detailed engagement on what this would mean in reality.

The H100 neighbourhood trial in Fife is due to go live in 2024 while a decision will be made this year on which of the two hydrogen village trials currently being consulted on will go forward. Bids are also being sought for the next stage – a hydrogen town. All of these projects will inform the government’s promised decision in 2026 on the future role of hydrogen for heat.

These projects, alongside other pilots to show how hydrogen appliances would work within the home, have allowed gas networks to engage directly with the public over the future of heat.

Nobody ever expected this process to be easy. A range of preconceptions swirl around hydrogen, while the temptation to reduce the debate to hydrogen vs electrification has not helped a nuanced discussion.

This webinar from Utility Week, in association with Radius Systems, will explore the lessons from public engagement around the village trials and other projects. It will identify some common ‘myths’ around hydrogen that need to be debunked, as well as the legitimate questions the sector needs to answer.

Discussion points will include:

  • The top 5 questions around hydrogen and how they can be tackled
  • Balancing customer choice and the need to gather evidence on hydrogen use in a live environment
  • Adapting the pipe network to carry hydrogen
  • International lessons on the use of hydrogen
  • The feasibility of a blended solution for the decarbonisation of heat

The panel will be chaired by Utility Week editor James Wallin and feature Derek Muckle, director of innovation and technology at Radius Systems, alongside senior sector figures.

Speakers:

Prof Zoe Robinson, University of Keele – author of a report on consumer perceptions of blended hydrogen in the home, based on findings from the HyDeploy project.

Sarah Williams, director of regulation and asset strategy, Wales & West Utilities

James Earl, director of gas, Energy Networks Association