As we move closer to net zero 2050, hydrogen could play a major role in the future of home heating.
Say Hy to Hydrogen Trials
As we move closer to net zero 2050, hydrogen could play a major role in the future of home heating.
There are several trials underway or about to take place across the UK as the country continues to cement its position as a leader in this technology.
These can be split into two types: blended and 100% hydrogen. We’re proud to be involved in the majority of them.
Hydrogen Blend Ready Trials
Blended trials are a mix of hydrogen and natural gas and these are well underway.
Keele University, Staffordshire
Around 150 boilers have been running up to a 20% hydrogen blend between October 2019 and March 2021 . This trial was completed successfully and there have been no issues with heating systems or cooking appliances
Winlaton, Gateshead
A sign hydrogen is becoming more established, the next trial consists of 670 occupied homes.
These homes will be converted to a 20%/80% hydrogen/natural gas blend initially for 10 months which began in August 2021. This is a significant step as it shows how there is more confidence in the technology as it is considered safe to test in the domestic market.
100% Hydrogen Trials
Hy4Heat, Northumberland
Another trial is the Hy4Heat programme which includes 100% hydrogen boilers running in specially-built demonstration houses.
The site has already completed over 200 tests, researching and proving the safety of converting homes and gas networks to hydrogen.
Discover more about the UK’s first hydrogen heating demonstration.
Hy4Heat also recently saw our hydrogen boiler commissioned at the semi-detached house built especially for the hydrogen economy in Gateshead. The project has heating, hot water, cooking and gas fires situated in purpose-built properties.
This is a joint project between Northern Gas Networks, the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) and Cadent - exciting proof of the UK’s commitment to hydrogen.
Fife, Scotland
There is a 300-home trial in Fife which will commence during 2022 with all 300 homes running from Hydrogen in 2023.
SGN is delivering a trial which will see 300 homes in Fife connected to a 100% hydrogen gas network. A hydrogen demonstration facility with show homes will be launching in 2022 to support the customer engagement. Customers in the area will have the choice to opt-in for a hydrogen gas supply or remain with their existing natural gas supply, with the aim of having all 300 connected in 2023.
For more information please see https://www.sgn.co.uk/H100Fife
HyNet, North West England
Finally, there is the HyNet programme, which although not specific to boilers, does include heating homes as one of its key focuses. This is alongside hydrogen production, transportation and manufacturing.
All trials are working towards one goal: gathering and building evidence, as well as confirming what we know already, to help increase confidence in hydrogen as a technology. All will help form government policy in this area.
Future of our industry
Learn more about the various technologies that look set to become the norm.
Technical Information
Here is all the technical information you need about hydrogen boilers.
Homeowner FAQs
Read our one-stop shop of answers to help you when speaking to your customer.