Northern Gas Networks (NGN), the gas distributor for the North East, northern Cumbria and Yorkshire, has announced proposals for two underground pipelines connecting hydrogen production with heavy industry and power generation across the Humber and Teesside regions.

The East Coast Hydrogen for Northern Gas Networks project plans to play a vital role in protecting and boosting local jobs in the industrial clusters, support investment and decarbonise heavy industry.

By connecting the gas network to planned hydrogen production and storage through repurposed and new-build pipes, NGN can transport the low carbon gas to manufacturers of steel, chemicals, bricks and glass across Teesside and the Humber.

Many of these industries currently rely on large volumes of natural gas for high heat processes, making decarbonisation via electrification unviable.

Hydrogen, which doesn’t produce carbon when burned, can provide an alternative low carbon option to natural gas, supporting heavy industry to decarbonise and feedstock for clean power.

NGN’s proposals will be classed as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) and are currently in the early first phase of the development process, focusing on a design, planning and costing study.

Communities will be able to share their feedback in the coming months to help NGN understand key themes and issues of importance.

With this initial feedback, a more advanced design will be prepared for the project, including information about how potential impacts on the environment and communities have been  assessed, with further opportunities to comment on the updated proposals.

The 39-mile Teesside pipeline plans to run through the industrial cluster from Newton Aycliffe to Skinningrove, while the 68-mile route in the Humber will run from Saltend towards Ferrybridge, West Yorkshire.

An economic assessment has estimated the combined scheme could deliver around £1.2 billion of value and up to 1,200 jobs across both local economies.

The progress of both pipelines is expected to be determined through the Development Consent Order (DCO) planning process, which would require a decision from the Secretary of State.

If successful, construction and connection would begin in the 2030s.

Keith Owen, NGN Head of Energy Futures said:

“Businesses in our industrial clusters use huge amounts of gas for high temperatures – some enough to heat the equivalent of 10,000 homes – meaning switching to an electric alternative would be extremely challenging.

‘Hydrogen can provide the same heat as natural gas without the emissions, making it a realistic solution for industry to decarbonise while supporting growth and jobs in our industrial heartlands.

“We’re proud to be supporting those businesses across Teesside and Humber through our proposal and will be listening closely to local place-makers and communities over the coming months to make sure their views help to shape our plans.”

Tees Valley Mayor Ben Houchen said: 

“The future of hydrogen is happening in Teesside, and this proposal is another step towards making sure our region remains the best place in the country to invest in the next generation of industry.

“Connecting hydrogen production with our major industrial sites will help us safeguard jobs and investment while giving local businesses the energy they need to grow for decades to come.”

Luke Campbell MBE, Mayor of Hull and East Yorkshire said:

 “The Humber is already an energy powerhouse, and these proposals could strengthen Hull and East Yorkshire’s role in supporting the UK’s energy security. “We will continue to work with industry, government and partners across the Humber to ensure that investment in new energy infrastructure delivers good jobs and lasting benefits for local people and businesses.”