Phoenix Energy welcome the release of the Hydrogen Consultation by the Department for the Economy.
The consultation seeks views across a range of areas including production, transport, storage and end uses of hydrogen in Northern Ireland.
Hydrogen has potential to decarbonise significant sectors across NI including transport, heating and I&C processing. It may also have potential as a method of energy storage, allowing the NI energy system to store curtailed renewable electricity for use when wind and solar production levels are low or demand is very high.
NI has historically outperformed in the hydrogen sector with companies such as Wrightbus and Translink pioneering hydrogen use cases, and our education sector already offers substantial courses in the hydrogen field at both Higher and Further Education levels. At Phoenix we have been working to ensure our network is ready for a hydrogen blend.
Our pathway towards a fully renewable green gas network by 2050 that aims to maximise the large volumes of biomethane potential in NI. Hydrogen will also play a significant role in the pathway by supporting the decarbonisation of specific sectors where it can be best utilised.
Phoenix Energy look forward to responding to this consultation, which can be found here.
The closing date for responses is 18th December.