UK plans to switch gas boilers to hydrogen from 2026

The UK plans to require all newly installed gas-fired boilers to be hydrogen-ready from 2026 as the country prepares to transition to low-carbon domestic heating.

The government solicits input from consumers, installers, manufacturers and the wider industry through public consultation to assess potential impact. The process will also discuss proposals to improve the efficiency of boilers and heating systems through improved minimum standards and the potential role of gas boiler/electric heat pump hybrids in heat decarbonization in the 2020s and 2030s. The consultations will end on March 21st.

The government previously confirmed that it intends to install all new heating systems in British homes from 2035 so they can run on low-carbon fuels.

“We believe hydrogen can offer a strategic option for decarbonizing heat in buildings. Since this is not yet a well-established technology, further evaluation of the technical feasibility, costs, benefits and other implications is needed before policy decisions are made in 2026 on the role of low-carbon hydrogen in heating,” the government explains. “Subject to these decisions, any deployment by 2030 is likely to focus on a pilot project in the city, with further expansion beyond 2030. market development.

The government called on the country's gas distributors to submit their proposals for pilot urban projects and the speedy introduction of hydrogen heating. The deadline for submitting these proposals is 20 January. Cadent and NGN are developing detailed plans for the proposed village trial so that the government can decide if and where the trial should take place. A decision is expected in 2023 and is likely to generate mixed reactions from affected residents.

A decision is also slated for next year to mix hydrogen (up to 20%) in UK gas distribution networks. The government says it is gathering the necessary evidence to determine if blending meets required safety standards, is feasible, and represents good value for money. It should respond to public consultations on the matter in the second quarter of 2023.