What action is the Welsh Government taking to support the use of hydrogen as an energy source in residential properties?
Hydrogen has significant potential uses in industry, transport and heat in Wales. Hydrogen could displace natural gas in heating systems or be used as a storage medium for renewable electricity. However, there is a lot of work still to do in Wales and across the UK before we can determine what role hydrogen will play in residential heating systems.
We have consulted on a Hydrogen Pathway looking at the potential future role of hydrogen across Wales, including generating heat and power in homes. Local area energy plans will identify the changes needed to a local energy system, including decarbonise heat. Our gas and electricity network owners are collaborating to develop a strategic plan for future grid to support a net zero Wales.
A number of Welsh Government programmes support projects which explore the role of hydrogen in residential properties. This includes several innovative projects under the Smart Living Hydrogen Business Research and Innovation for Decarbonisation (HyBRID) initiative, two project under the Optimised Retrofit Progamme (ORP) and work with the HyNet (the North West/North Wales Hydrogen Network).
Alongside our work, we are working with the other governments across the UK to learn from residential heating trials currently underway. The Health and Safety Executive is due to report on safety aspects of hydrogen for heating in 2023. The UK Government intends to take a strategic decision on hydrogen in heating in 2026 and we are engaged in that discussion with a view of developing a UK-wide position.