Learn more about our plans and see the interactive map for our proposed hydrogen pipeline in the Teesside region.
Project Overview
We're exploring how existing gas infrastructure in the Humber and Teesside regions could be repurposed, and new infrastructure built, to create two underground hydrogen pipelines, serving industry.
Connecting hydrogen production and storage with industrial users
Northern Gas Networks is the owner and operator of the gas distribution network in the north-east, parts of Cumbria and most of Yorkshire. We currently deliver natural gas to over 2.9 million homes and businesses.
The East Coast Hydrogen project for Northern Gas Networks is our proposal exploring how new and existing pipelines could transport hydrogen to clean power and industry in the Humber and Teesside regions. Businesses in these industrial clusters use large volumes of gas for processes and include the manufacturers of chemicals, steel and bricks. They have plans to decarbonise and need a like for like gas replacement and see hydrogen as the most viable or only option.
The scope of our proposal does not include gas supply to domestic properties and would only affect those companies who opt in to using hydrogen.
Project Development
Through a Front End Engineering Design (FEED) study, we are working to understand how our gas network could be used to support industry to decarbonise by transporting hydrogen instead of natural gas. At the moment we are developing a plan for how this could work and any decision about whether we move to the construction phase will be made later.
Our current work includes liaising with businesses interested in using hydrogen, identifying potential pipeline routes, understanding what infrastructure upgrades may be needed, assessing environmental considerations and developing an initial cost estimate. Our Front End Engineering Design (FEED) study will be submitted to our regulator, Ofgem, in Autumn 2027.
Due to the scale of the project, it would be classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) and therefore subject to a Development Consent Order (DCO). This means a decision about whether to progress is made by a Secretary of State. This would take place in the late 2020s or early 2030s, followed by construction and connections in the event of a positive decision.
Project
Timeline
2026 -2027
Project development
Autumn 2027
Submit FEED study to Ofgem
2028
Development Consent Order applications expected
2030 Onwards
Repurposing and build of new pipelines, subject to approval from Secretary of State.
Want to get in touch?
If you have any questions about the East Coast Hydrogen for Northern Gas Networks project, or would like to learn more, please get in touch with our team.