Response to DESNZ’s consultation on Hydrogen Blending into the GB Gas Transmission Network.

Hydrogen blending consultation response 309 KB

The consultation seeks to understand the potential strategic and economic value of blending into the GB gas transmission network, including DESNZ’s position to consider further whether to support and enable transmission blending of up to 2% hydrogen by volume. We welcome the opportunity to respond as the statutory consumer advocate for energy consumers in Great Britain. We generally agree with the technical assessment of blending up to 2%, 5%, and 20%, but have raised some concerns around consumer cost, equity and value for money. Industrial users may benefit directly but households risk indirect cost burdens without corresponding advantages. Blending also offers limited carbon reduction at high cost, which may shift focus from more effective decarbonisation options like electrification and energy efficiency. We call for: ● Stronger protection frameworks to prevent unjustified cost pass-through to consumers. ● Greater transparency and detailed cost–benefit analysis before proceeding. ● A cautious approach to blending, limited to 2% or less, and only if consumer protections are in place. Blending should be seen as a transitional measure, not a long-term solution, so its implementation must not undermine progress toward fair, affordable, and effective decarbonisation.