Arup releases hydrogen report

The report entitled ‘A future hydrogen economy’ finds that hydrogen has a potentially significant role to play in decarbonising the whole energy system in the UK, and that this could provide a blueprint for other countries seeking to do the same.

It highlights the progress already being made in demonstrating the use of hydrogen for transport and heat, stating the need for more policy progress and collaboration between government, academia, the private sector and other stakeholders to shape future demand, change consumer perception and create the strong supply chains needed to allow the hydrogen economy to thrive.

The report, supported by the UK Energy Research Centre (UKERC), outlines clear steps needed for the UK, and countries like it, to fully embrace hydrogen including:

• Stronger collaborative efforts between government and private organisations.
• Sufficient engagement with consumers.
• Incrementally increasing network capacity.
• A focus on delivering high-profile projects quickly.
• A joined-up system approach with a balance of hydrogen and renewable electricity.

The report is the result of findings from extensive consultations and workshops with industry stakeholders including investors, government, transport bodies and private multinationals that examined the challenges and opportunities of using hydrogen.

Energy Advisory Director, Mark Neller, said: “There is a growing consensus that in tandem with decarbonising the electricity supply, decarbonising gas through hydrogen has a crucial role in tackling climate change and improving air quality. This report provides the vision and an integrated road map which represents a significant opportunity for the UK to take a leading role in the hydrogen economy, generating jobs, benefiting the environment, industry and people.”

Arup is the lead consultant on four hydrogen projects in the UK including the Hy4Heat programme. This is a three-year feasibility study that aims to establish if it is technically possible, safe and convenient for consumers to replace methane with hydrogen in existing domestic properties in the UK.

This report follows news of Arup’s recent appointment by the Port of Auckland to explore hydrogen use for transport in New Zealand and Arup Energy Advisory Leader Liz Halstead being appointed to the Hydrogen New Zealand board.

Read the article online at: https://www.hydrocarbonengineering.com/the-environment/09052019/arup-releases-hydrogen-report/