A TRIAL of hydrogen distribution via a pipe network is to be conducted using hydrogen supplied from the INEOS Grangemouth site.

Chairman at Grangemouth, Andrew Gardner, said: “We believe that Grangemouth is the ideal location in Scotland to create a hub for hydrogen production, use and export. This trial, in partnership with SGN, will play an important role in helping to make hydrogen distribution networks a reality.”

The trial, which is funded by the Energy Regulator and gas distribution companies, will use hydrogen supplied by INEOS in a 29 kilometre section of decommissioned pipeline between the Grangemouth site and Granton.

SGN Director of Energy Futures, Gus Mcintosh, said: “Our Local Transmission System is part of the national critical infrastructure that reaches millions of homes and businesses across the UK. So, repurposing it for hydrogen could support a hydrogen system transformation that is least cost and least disruptive to customers.”

In January, INEOS announced the next step in its plans to build a world-scale low-carbon hydrogen plant at Grangemouth as it commits to being Net Zero by 2045. This trial will help improve an understanding of existing networks and the suitability to deliver hydrogen as a clean alternative to natural gas, to homes and businesses.