Equilibrion, a leading technical and strategic nuclear consultancy, has been selected by Northern Gas Networks (NGN) and Wales & West Utilities (WWU), with support from the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC), to lead a study on nuclear-enabled hydrogen. This initiative will explore how hydrogen production using nuclear energy could contribute to the UK’s transition to a low-carbon future.
Hydrogen is becoming an essential component of clean energy solutions, and nuclear-powered hydrogen presents a promising, stable, and cost-effective alternative to natural gas. Recognized under the UK’s Low-Carbon Hydrogen Standard, this approach utilizes nuclear reactors’ heat and electricity to generate hydrogen, offering both economic and environmental benefits.
The SHyNE project will focus on creating a roadmap for deploying nuclear-enabled hydrogen in line with user demand. The study will assess potential nuclear sites, existing infrastructure, and hydrogen demand across different regions. A detailed economic evaluation will also be conducted to determine the feasibility and benefits of this approach.
Recent advancements in nuclear technology, including Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Advanced Modular Reactors (AMRs), provide new opportunities for efficient and scalable hydrogen production. SHyNE will explore how these innovations, along with flexible siting and financing strategies, can accelerate nuclear deployment and contribute to the UK’s clean energy goals.
A key aspect of the study will be analyzing how nuclear power stations, paired with electrolytic hydrogen production, can help balance electricity supply while supporting a reliable and diversified energy mix. By integrating nuclear energy with hydrogen production, the UK can strengthen its energy security and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.
Equilibrion’s Chief Technologist, Allan Simpson, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“Nuclear-enabled hydrogen offers a unique opportunity to advance the UK’s journey to Net Zero. This project will bring the nuclear and hydrogen industries together in a way that can help unlock the full potential of low-carbon hydrogen.”
WWU’s Head of Net Zero & Sustainability, Matthew Hindle, emphasized the importance of a diverse hydrogen supply:
“To ensure a steady and reliable hydrogen supply, we need to explore different production methods. SHyNE will help us understand how nuclear-enabled hydrogen can integrate with our existing gas network to support the energy transition.”
NGN Innovation Manager, Lewis Kirkwood, highlighted the role of hydrogen in decarbonization:
“Hydrogen will play a key role in reducing carbon emissions across various industries. Projects like SHyNE allow us to explore innovative solutions and ensure our infrastructure is ready for the future.”
The SHyNE project supports the UK government’s plans to expand nuclear energy production, with new siting policies expected in 2025. By leveraging nuclear energy for hydrogen production, this initiative aims to foster economic growth, create jobs, and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
