HYDROGEN BLENDING-LESSONS FROM HYDEPLOY

The HyDeploy project is the first program in the UK to supply hydrogen, in the form of a blend, to a live gas network since the conversion from towns gas in the mid-1970s. The project is delivered by Cadent, Northern Gas Networks, Progressive Energy, the Health and Safety Executive Science and Research Centre, Keele University, and ITM Power. The program is funded via the Ofgem Network Innovation Competition and commenced in 2017. The objective of the HyDeploy program is to demonstrate that a blend of hydrogen, up to 20% by volume (vol%), can be safely distributed and utilized within the Great Britain gas distribution network. The purpose of this article is to detail the lessons learnt from the core technical programs of the overall project to date and from the operation of the first trial at Keele University. The evidence base in support of the Keele University trial exemption has been assessed and approved by the HSE.