Scotland's Push for Green Hydrogen Blending in Gas Network
Key Ideas
  • The Scottish Government is considering blending hydrogen into the gas network as a way to reduce carbon emissions.
  • Existing gas infrastructure in Scotland could support the transport of a blended mix of hydrogen and natural gas to consumers.
  • Projects in Scotland aim to produce 'green hydrogen' at scale using the country's renewable electricity supplies.
  • While there are challenges such as energy density, the government is actively looking at blending hydrogen and making decisions on the matter.
Energy minister Michael Shanks in Scotland has expressed support for blending hydrogen into the gas network to reduce carbon emissions. This move involves replacing some natural gas supplies with hydrogen, with the potential for boilers to handle up to 20% blended hydrogen. The existing gas grid infrastructure is considered capable of transporting this blended mixture to consumers. Several projects in Scotland are focusing on producing 'green hydrogen' using renewable electricity sources. Despite the advantages of hydrogen as a clean fuel, challenges like energy density remain, necessitating a higher volume of hydrogen for the same heating output. The government is actively considering the blending of hydrogen and gathering evidence on the suitable blend levels. This includes plans for a large green hydrogen project in Kintore, Aberdeenshire, and potential hydrogen production at the Grangemouth industrial site. While the focus is on blending, there are discussions about the viability of 100% pure hydrogen for the domestic market, considering its carbon dioxide-free combustion. The government is in favor of blending hydrogen but is carefully deliberating on the decision points regarding the appropriate blend levels.
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