Integrating Hydrogen Refuelling Stations into the UK’s Gas Network: A Study by Costain and Wales & West Utilities

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Infrastructure firm Costain has teamed up with Wales and West Utilities (WWU) to embark on a pioneering study aimed at exploring the integration of hydrogen refuelling stations into the UK’s existing gas network. This initiative, funded by the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem), is a significant step towards leveraging the UK’s natural gas infrastructure to support the burgeoning demand for zero-emissions vehicles, particularly hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs).

The HyDrive Initiative: A Vision for Hydrogen-Powered Transport

The study is part of WWU's ambitious HyDrive initiative, which seeks to address the critical shortage of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure across Wales and the south west of England. HyDrive aims to lay the groundwork for a sustainable hydrogen refuelling ecosystem that can meet the needs of FCEVs, especially heavy-duty vehicles. These vehicles, which typically cover high daily mileage and have limited refuelling windows, stand to benefit significantly from an efficient hydrogen refuelling network.

Objectives and Scope of the Study

Costain’s research team will undertake a comprehensive analysis to understand the current demands of road transport in the region. By consulting regional stakeholders, the team aims to model and forecast future demands on the network. This data-driven approach will enable the researchers to recommend strategic locations for hydrogen refuelling stations, ensuring that the infrastructure solutions proposed are both viable and sustainable.

Laura Hughes, Energy Sector Director at Costain, emphasised the critical role of hydrogen in the UK’s energy transition. She stated, “Hydrogen will play an important role in the UK’s decarbonisation and energy transition ambitions. Through its HyDrive initiative, Wales and 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.”

The Importance of Hydrogen Refuelling Infrastructure

The push for hydrogen as a clean energy source is driven by the need to reduce carbon emissions and meet the UK’s ambitious net-zero targets. Hydrogen FCEVs emit only water vapour, making them an attractive option for reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector. However, the adoption of hydrogen-powered vehicles has been hampered by the lack of refuelling infrastructure, a challenge that the HyDrive initiative aims to overcome.

Matthew Hindle, Head of Net Zero and Sustainability at Wales and West Utilities, highlighted the importance of the initiative, saying, “HyDrive is a hugely important initiative for us as we seek to reduce carbon emissions across Wales and the south west of England. Having successfully trialled a hydrogen van earlier this year, one of the challenges was the lack of hydrogen refuelling in the area. The trial required us to set up a bespoke hydrogen refuelling eco-system and clearly highlighted the need for permanent infrastructure if FCEVs are to become a reality.”

A Model for the Broader Industry

While the initial focus of the study is on Wales and the south west of England, the implications of the research are far-reaching. The findings from the HyDrive initiative could provide a blueprint for other regions in the UK and potentially other countries looking to develop their hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. Hindle expressed optimism about the broader impact of the project, stating, “The lack of hydrogen refuelling infrastructure is not confined to our region and we’re optimistic the project will produce a model which can be used by the broader industry and accelerate the sector’s complicated but pressing road to net zero.”

In Conclusion

The collaboration between Costain and Wales and West Utilities on the HyDrive initiative marks a significant milestone in the UK’s journey towards a sustainable and low-carbon future. By exploring the integration of hydrogen refuelling stations into the existing gas network, the study aims to pave the way for the widespread adoption of hydrogen FCEVs. As the UK strives to meet its decarbonisation targets, innovative solutions like HyDrive are essential for overcoming the challenges and ensuring a cleaner, greener future for all.

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