Project Union Building the UK’s Hydrogen Backbone

Synopsis

Project Union, led by National Gas, is a groundbreaking initiative that will repurpose parts of the UK’s 5,000-mile National Transmission System (NTS) and construct new pipelines to create a 1,500-mile hydrogen ‘backbone’. This hydrogen network will connect industrial clusters, hydrogen production hubs, and storage sites, supporting the decarbonisation of power generation, industry, and transport while enhancing energy security and positioning the UK as a global hydrogen leader.

This panel will explore how Project Union will enable a low-cost, scalable route to net zero, drive investment in the hydrogen economy, and ensure the UK remains competitive in the global energy transition.

• How Project Union will convert and expand the UK’s gas transmission system to transport 100% hydrogen?
• How will the backbone connect to European hydrogen networks and LNG terminals for global hydrogen trade?
• What is the role of repurposing assets, avoiding asset stranding, and minimising environmental impacts?
• How will Project Union supports the UK’s first large-scale hydrogen conversion, affecting up to 39,000 businesses by 2032?
• What is needed from government and regulators to accelerate development and secure funding?