Gateshead set to welcome UK’s first homes with 100% hydrogen-fuelled appliances

The UK’s first homes with appliances fuelled entirely by hydrogen are set to be built in the North East.

The Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS) has announced that new homes will be constructed in Gateshead as part of a programme to showcase the potential of hydrogen to replace existing fuels.

The properties will be built in the Low Thornley area as part of the government’s Hy4Heat initiative to reduce carbon emissions.

Energy Minister Anne-Marie Trevelyan commented: “From running a hot bath and cooking our evening meals to turning on the heating, most of us use natural gas every day.

“However, to tackle climate change, we need to find alternatives to fossil fuels and move towards making clean energy the norm.

“While these new houses in Gateshead will look like any other, they will showcase how low carbon hydrogen can transform the way we power our homes and offer a glimpse of what the future holds as we build back greener.”

The project secured a £250k grant from the government’s Hy4Heat Innovation programme and is being run by gas company Northern Gas Networks and Cadent, who have both also input £250k of funding each.

Mark Horsley, chief executive officer of Northern Gas Networks, commented: “We’re delighted to be working with BEIS and Cadent on this unique demonstration, which gives energy customers a first glimpse at hydrogen technology in the home.

“Just like natural gas, hydrogen can heat homes in exactly the same way, meaning minimal change for customers in terms of how they use gas for heating or cooking.

“The houses bring to life the potential of this green gas for keeping UK homes warm, while minimising impact on the environment.”

Steve Fraser, chief executive officer at Cadent, added: “We are proud to be part of this important project where we will be able to show customers what their future gas appliances will look like. A familiar sight to them, with one difference, they will be powered by hydrogen.

“These projects are so important to demonstrate a decarbonised energy solution in homes now.”

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