The aim is to further research into using electrolysers to convert excess wind power into hydrogen. The gas can then be used as fuel or, as the study aims to find out, injected directly into the high or low pressure gas grid. ITM believes that, if commercially proven at wind farm scale, the solution could interest operators as a means of generating revenue from wind when the network is constrained. Simultaneously, it would enable some decarbonisation of the gas grid.
The year-long project, which commenced in July, includes preliminary logistical research, system research, creation of a generation model and the simulation of hydrogen production at a single wind farm.
Other partners include the Scottish Hydrogen Fuel Cell Association and Gastec. Announcing the project earlier this year ITM power CEO Graham Cooley claimed the firm’s technology was already “ready at the 1MW level”.