Gas network battles rebel against hydrogen testing

Whitby resident Kate Grannell is involved in the opposition to the hydrogen village proposal. Photo: Paul Cooper

Dawn Campbell, grandmother Each of the two, who own two properties likely to be affected by the litigation, said on Friday: «It's the fact that we were never asked if we wanted it, that I think it’s undemocratic, but I’m also concerned about security.” aspect.

“It would actually be an experiment. I'm worried about my two tenants, as well as my investment.»

If the trial continues, residents will be able to choose between converting their natural gas heating to hydrogen or — if they don't want to participate — installing an electric alternative such as a heat pump.

Ms Campbell said: “It's not possible to give up and save your gas. I know some people who have said they won't let hydrogen people into their homes.»

On Friday the government confirmed it would not move ahead with the Redcar trial without public support. A decision is expected before the end of this year.

The hydrogen case was dealt another major blow last month when the National Infrastructure Commission said it was an ineffective solution that risked saddled consumers with higher bills.

This follows a separate meeting organized by residents themselves last week, involving a panel of independent experts. NGN was invited but did not attend.

Alec Brown, a local authority leader, said he proposed holding another event after seeing claims on social media that hydrogen heating could put homes at risk explosion.

NGN insists that hydrogen heating is completely safe and that all proposals must be approved by the head of the health and safety department before implementation.

The company also says the project will bring major economic benefits to the region, including 300 million pounds of investment and hundreds of new jobs.< /p>

Mr Brown said: «The overall level of support for the project is difficult to gauge at the moment, partly because people who don't want something are often the loudest.»

«When we talk to people in Na threshold, we noticed that many people say they would welcome a hydrogen trial, but also many are wary and unsure about it.

“Ultimately, residents will decide whether this goes ahead.”< /p>

The NGN is understood to be considering holding a meeting in the coming weeks, including whether a government representative could attend.

A company spokesman said: “We will never install anything that poses a risk to the safety of people or homes, and the project will not go ahead without the approval of the UK's independent safety regulator.

“As a responsible gas network, the safety of our Customers are our number one priority and we have decades of experience getting gas into people's homes safely and reliably.

“We want people to feel comfortable with the changes and will provide added confidence through meetings with affected residents along with local councillors.»

On Friday a government spokesman said: «We have always said that we will not impose these tests on communities without their support.»

«Before any trial commences, the Health and Safety Executive will need to ensure it will operate safely and we are committed to ensuring that consumers are protected before, during and after any trial.»