Duration: 01.01.2020-31.12.2023
About the project:
The HIGGS project, which stands for „Hydrogen in Gas Grids,“ was designed to systematically validate the admixing of hydrogen into the high-pressure gas grid. The primary objective was to decarbonize the European gas grid by enabling the safe injection of hydrogen, thereby providing a sustainable and long-term solution for the energy system.
The project aimed to identify and address any remaining weaknesses regarding H2-Readiness and develop a pathway for the stepwise integration of hydrogen into the European gas network. To achieve this, the project investigated the impact of high levels of hydrogen on the gas infrastructure, its components, and its management.
Key tasks within the project included:
- Mapping technical, legal, and regulatory barriers and enablers for admixing up to 100% hydrogen in the high-pressure gas grid.
- Setting up and operating a testing platform that reproduces all components of a high-pressure network.
- Testing and evaluating different accessories, appliances, and innovations for various hydrogen/methane admixtures.
- Conducting techno-economic modeling for hydrogen/methane admixtures within the high-pressure gas grid and equipment.
The main findings and assessments were compiled into a document that outlines a pathway to enable higher concentrations of hydrogen in the natural gas transmission grid. This document includes potential issues, barriers, and facilitators for transport and interoperability in the gas grids, proposals on regulations, codes, and standards, and recommendations for admixture and injection facilities as well as for the gas market and operation considerations.
The project team placed special emphasis on legal, regulatory, and technical aspects by mapping the present equipment, regulations, standards, and certification (RSC) of the natural gas grids. Resolving these critical RSC bottlenecks will enable end users and operators to safely operate the entire gas grid and avoid the replacement of fully operable equipment and appliances due to rising hydrogen concentrations in the gas grid.
The project’s achievements and contributions:
The HIGGS project investigated the possibility of integrating hydrogen into the European gas grid, aiming for up to 100% hydrogen admixture. Key achievements include:
Creating an extensive inventory of materials in current pipelines and transport facilities to identify parts susceptible to operational issues with hydrogen integration.
Conducting an in-depth review of existing regulatory standards and codes to support the development of reliable approval procedures for pilot projects and gas transmission grid expansion.
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Highlights (der news and events):
On November 21st 2023, the team of researcher engaged in
the HIGGS project presented their results and conclusions in a public conference.
This conference took place on the Brussels Expo during the EU Hydrogen Week and marks the final phase of the project. It gathered insights and the latest results on hydrogen injection in gas grids with the aim to be presented to experts and stakeholders in the field of the gas sector and particularly the field of hydrogen integration into the EU gas grids. During the closing event, we will share the main findings, recommendations, and a pathway for higher concentrations of hydrogen in the natural gas transmission grid.
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Publications and downloads:
