James Earl, Director of Gas, ENA, which represents the UK's energy network operators, welcomed today's report Accelerating the growth of the hydrogen sector: UK Hydrogen Champion recommendations:
“This report is a vital call to action for anyone concerned with how the UK is going to meet our net zero goals. It’s clear we can’t just tinker with one or two parts of the system – we need a transformational push, directed by a clear vision of what the whole low-carbon energy system will look like. Hydrogen deployment, the development of renewables and the adoption of technologies like heat pumps are all essential to this vision.
“Network operators are working hard to provide industries, businesses and homes with a choice of low-carbon energy, but they need certainty around investment, system requirements and planned commercial arrangements to accelerate their plans. In particular, we agree with the report that a strategic decision to support hydrogen blending in 2023, urgent clarity on what the shape of the decision on hydrogen for heat in 2026 will be and clarity on the timeline around funding allocation rounds are crucial if gas network operators are to maintain the necessary pace.
“With certainty and appropriate funding models in place, our gas members can move forward with the planned development of the infrastructure which will enable the scaling up of the hydrogen economy and delivery of a net zero energy system.”
Press contacts for journalists
Philip Baker
Media Relations Manager
ENA Press Office
Notes to editor
- The independent report Accelerating the growth of the hydrogen sector: UK Hydrogen Champion recommendations is available online.
- ENA provided insights and information to the team developing this report.
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.