National Gas has begun designing a proposed 350-mile hydrogen network linking St Fergus in Scotland with Teesside in north-east England.
Project Union: St Fergus to Teesside is the second phase of a planned 1,500-mile underground hydrogen network designed to connect major industrial regions across the UK.
The network would provide low-carbon hydrogen to power stations, industrial sites and storage facilities, supporting the decarbonisation of sectors such as steel, chemicals and heavy manufacturing.
The company say the project could support around 3,100 jobs during peak construction and deliver £300 million in annual direct gross value added to the economy.
Ian Radley, Chief Commercial Officer at National Gas, said: “By progressing this next phase of the national hydrogen network, we are supporting Britain’s ambitions to decarbonise industry and unlock future low-carbon growth opportunities, while helping to deliver long-term economic benefits for communities and businesses along the route.”
The project will combine repurposed natural gas pipelines with new infrastructure where required, creating a dedicated hydrogen network.
National Gas says the scheme could strengthen energy security by enabling greater use of home-grown, low-carbon energy while supporting industrial activity.
The programme forms part of a £164 million funding package supporting three hydrogen infrastructure projects.
