Learnings

Outcomes

Outcomes include an improved modelling methodology for hydrogen system and a predicted future hydrogen operating scenario risk profile.

The model used by the gas networks and for this project, CONIFER, has undergone a number of improvements as an output of this project. Updates are those identified as part of the objectives, above.

The project final outcome has been to demonstrate that the HSE’s guidelines of risk management can be met for a future hydrogen system. HSE defines risk in 3 tiers, not acceptable, tolerable, and broadly acceptable. The project has shown that a hydrogen system, like natural gas, can be operated effectively within the broadly acceptable definition. This means the public will not be exposed to risks which puts them at a greater than 1-in-1 million probability of becoming a fatality as a result of hydrogen transition.

The project has explored ways to reduce risks further, taking advantage of what the gas transition could enable. The introduction of some risk mitigation measures is shown to positively reduce risk to below that of natural gas. 

It has also highlighted a gap for further consideration, the risk assessment of alternative energy systems. Part of the ask from project stakeholders was to evaluate the change in risk from a reduce number of gas appliances, as if some were swapped to electrical alternatives. This reduces the risk of gas, but increases the risk of alternative energy solutions by an unknown quantity. 

Lessons Learnt

The project required cross-organisational collaboration. The project demonstrated how this could be done successfully, utilising existing governance structures and forums to reach out to, engage, and collaborate with. This spanned across teams deliver hydrogen and natural gas functions. For future projects, the level of collaboration could continue to be built upon and an increasing proficiency of sharing and exchanging knowledge and know-how. Something which will be required if the networks collectively transition to hydrogen or decommission en masse.