Centrica and HiiROC, supported by the Net Zero Technology Centre (NZTC), have successfully demonstrated the injection of H₂ into a gas-fired peak power plant at Centrica’s Brigg Energy Park, North Lincolnshire. The trial that took place on September 11 marks a UK first in using H₂ to decarbonize peak power generation supplying power directly to the electricity grid.

HiiROC’s modular H₂ production technology, using thermal plasma electrolysis (TPE), produced H₂ onsite which was then blended at a 3% ratio for the purposes of a one-hour trial.

The trial marks a further step forward in Centrica’s ongoing efforts to advance innovative solutions for the decarbonization of its portfolio of gas plants, demonstrating that existing gas infrastructure can operate on a H₂ blend to provide reliable, low carbon electricity to UK homes and businesses. More broadly, the trial shows a viable route for delivering on decarbonization readiness obligations for peaker generation as part of the UK’s journey to net zero.

"As the UK looks to achieve its ambitious Clean Power 2030 targets, H₂ has the potential to play a key whole system role in providing reliable, low carbon electricity to power UK homes and businesses when demand is at its highest," said Martin Scargill, Managing Director, Centrica Energy Storage +.

It is also a key milestone in HiiROC’s journey, demonstrating the effectiveness and affordability of HiiROC’s TPE process, which produces H₂ without CO₂ emissions, making it compliant with the UK’s Low Carbon H₂ Standard (LCHS). By leveraging the existing gas network and co-locating H₂ production where it is needed, operators can decarbonize without costly new infrastructure.

Martin Scargill, Managing Director, Centrica Energy Storage + said, “The success of this trial demonstrates the potential H₂ has to reduce emissions and future proof flexible power generation such as our gas peaker plant at Brigg. As the UK looks to achieve its ambitious Clean Power 2030 targets, H₂ has the potential to play a key whole system role in providing reliable, low-carbon electricity to power UK homes and businesses when demand is at its highest.

I am proud of the work Centrica does in supporting the development of exciting, innovative technologies right here on the Humber that can help transform energy generation in the future.”

Tim Davies, Chief Executive of HiiROC said, "We are thrilled with the success of the injection trial.  This achievement is a testament to the hard work of the joint team, and it brings us one step closer to delivering affordable, clean H₂, and provides a path to help achieve the UK’s ambitions for Clean Power in 2030 and beyond.”

Rebecca Allison, Chief Operating Officer, Net Zero Technology Centre said, “What was achieved at Brigg Energy Park represents a significant step towards industrial decarbonization at scale. This UK-first trial proves what’s possible when industry collaborates to innovate. The success of this project reflects the skill and commitment of everyone involved and underscores the vital role H₂ will play in delivering flexible, low-carbon energy.”