A clean energy project exploring the use of hydrogen in the gas network to combat climate change has won a major industry award yesterday (Wednesday 15 May).

H21, led by Northern Gas Networks (NGN), in partnership with Cadent, SGN, Wales & West Utilities, DNV GL and the Health & Safety Executive, was named Project of the Year at the annual Gas Industry Awards ceremony, organised by the Energy & Utilities Alliance (EUA) and the Institute of Gas  Engineers and Managers (IGEM).

The event sees over 600 gas industry professionals come together to celebrate the achievements of the last year, with a judging panel made up of leading figures from the transmission, distribution and downstream gas sectors.

H21 is a £10.3 million, three-year project, funded by Ofgem’s Network Innovation Competition, working to provide the critical safety evidence proving that a 100% hydrogen gas network is just as safe as the natural gas network heating homes and businesses today.

The clean gas produces just heat and water when burned, and has been named by Government as a plausible pathway towards UK decarbonisation.

Northern Gas Networks CEO Mark Horsley said: “I am delighted that H21 has been recognised for the work it is delivering through the collaboration of all four gas distribution networks.

“Customers are ready to embrace cleaner, greener solutions in their homes and harnessing hydrogen as part of this would represent a huge step towards meeting climate change targets.”

More on H21 can be found at www.h21.green

Anyone that smells gas or suspects carbon monoxide should call the National Gas Emergency Service immediately on 0800 111 999. This line is in operation 24-hours a day, seven days a week.