That’s from the Energy Networks Association (ENA), which today (Jan 13) published a plan that calls for legal changes to be made by the government and regulatory bodies to ensure gas companies can start blending hydrogen in the gas grid by the above date.

Further to this, the plan outlines two options that the Department of Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy should choose from for the energy infrastructure changes that need to be made to allow the blending to happen – a Strategic Approach and a Free Market Approach.

These moves are vital for the future of Britain’s gas grid as it looks to facilitate a decarbonised future, as it is believed that with the introduction of 20% hydrogen will replace one fifth of currently used natural gas.

David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, said, “Whether it be heating our homes, powering our businesses or generating cleaner electricity, hydrogen will help drive up our energy security, while driving down our carbon emissions – and Britain’s gas grid companies are ready to get on with the job of delivering that.

“This plan sets out the changes needed to deliver cleaner, more secure energy supplies for all. What’s key is that the Government does its bit too by lifting its target for homegrown hydrogen production this decade. Doing that today will help gas grid companies deliver for tomorrow.”

As well as putting pressure on the government, Britain’s Hydrogen Blending Delivery Plan also sets out how all five of Britain’s gas grid companies will meet the blending target, which will also mean that Britain’s fleet of gas-fired power plants will be able to use blended hydrogen to generate cleaner electricity.

Taking this into account, the companies have also together called on the government to double its domestic 2030 hydrogen production target from 5GW to 10GW and ensure that as much hydrogen as possible.

Making hydrogen happen

This March, H2 View will explore A Climate for Action and Investment in Europe in an immersive event that features some of the leading stakeholders and influencers in hydrogen, as well as a return to in-person networking and the opportunity to meet the Women in Hydrogen driving the agenda forward.

Taking place in Munich, Germany, confirmed speakers already include the Hydrogen Council, Hydrogen Europe, Clean Hydrogen Partnership, FiveT Hydrogen, Airbus, Nel and Michelin.

Further information on the event, agenda and confirmed speakers can be found here.

To book your ticket, click here.