National Gas, the UK's primary gas network operator, has unveiled Project Union, an ambitious plan to construct a 1,500-mile national hydrogen pipeline network that the company calls crucial to the nation's energy security and net-zero strategy.

The comprehensive infrastructure project involves repurposing existing pipelines and laying new ones specifically designed to transport 100% pure hydrogen. The new network is intended to move hydrogen efficiently from production sites to major industrial zones, large-scale storage facilities, and potential export terminals across Britain. 

According to the government estimates, the UK could require up to 460 terawatt-hours (TWh) of hydrogen by 2050 to meet its climate commitments, and Project Union aims to provide the necessary physical backbone for this massive energy transition.

The rollout is planned in carefully managed phases to ensure minimal disruption to existing natural gas supplies. The first phase, designated as “Project Union: East Coast” pipeline, will strategically link the Teesside and Humber regions, targeting initial access for vital industrial clusters in the North and East of England. 

Future expansion is planned to connect key areas, including Grangemouth, the North West, and South Wales, as well as strategic national hubs like the Bacton Gas Terminal and Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) import sites.

National Gas asserts the pipeline network will be transformative, supporting the domestic hydrogen economy and boosting energy security by driving home-grown production. The company stated the phased approach is necessary "...to ensure a continual supply of natural gas while avoiding the cost associated with decommissioning."

Beyond hydrogen infrastructure, the company forecasts significant local economic benefits, promising that development will work hand-in-hand with communities to unlock supply chain contracts and skilled engineering roles. 

Project Union seeks to make hydrogen a functional reality, enabling the deep decarbonization of hard-to-abate sectors like steel and chemical production nationwide.