Infrastructure solutions company Costain has been selected by Wales & West Utilities (WWU) to lead a study exploring how hydrogen refuelling stations can be integrated into the UK’s existing gas network.
The research, funded by Ofgem, will explore the potential of using the UK’s natural gas network – which provides energy to homes, businesses and large industry – as hydrogen fuelling infrastructure in anticipation of increased demand for zero-emission vehicles.
Specifically, the research will consider infrastructure solutions designed to increase the viability of hydrogen fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs).
FCEV technology offers potential advantages for heavy-duty vehicles, which typically have high daily mileage and limited refuelling windows.
The study is part of a WWU initiative called HyDrive, which seeks to address a reported lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure across Wales and the south west of England.
READ MORE: Findings of cold-weather FCEV trial published by First Hydrogen and Wales & West Utilities
Energy sector director at Costain, Laura Hughes, said: “Hydrogen will play an important role in the UK’s decarbonisation and energy transition ambitions.
“Through its HyDrive initiative, Wales & West Utilities is leading the way and our research will help improve understanding of the hurdles which need to be overcome to make hydrogen-powered vehicles a reality.
“Costain has a rich catalogue of expertise in this field and a deep understanding of how to handle hydrogen safely. This will ensure the report is grounded in practical implementation and ultimately delivers robust, actionable findings.”
Costain’s researchers will consult regional stakeholders to understand current road transport demands, model and forecast future demands on the network, and recommend potential locations where existing petrol stations could be converted to hydrogen refuellers.
The report’s insights into the economics of implementing the technology, and how it will impact consumers in a future transition, aim to point the way for gas distribution networks to work with hydrogen producers and refuelling infrastructure providers to help deliver demonstrable long-term savings for consumers as part of the energy transition.
Achievements and innovations in alternative fuels will be celebrated at the third annual CiTTi Awards, which will be held on 26 November 2024 at De Vere Grand Connaught Rooms in London. Nominations are open now! Please visit www.cittiawards.co.uk to learn more about this unmissable event for the UK’s transportation sector
