Wales & West Utilities (WWU) has set out plans to transform the energy system for the South West with clean hydrogen infrastructure.
Speaking at the South West Business Council (SWBC) Spring Conference, WWU’s Head of Net Zero & Sustainability, Matt Hindle, presented the HyLine South West feasibility study. The study explores options for hydrogen infrastructure that could be developed across Devon and Cornwall to harness the region’s renewable energy potential, and support the transition to a lower carbon energy system.
The study demonstrates that a hydrogen transmission network, connecting key locations including Exeter, Plymouth and St Austell, is technically feasible, with no significant barriers identified across the routes assessed. It also highlights the potential scale of future demand, alongside opportunities to link hydrogen supply, storage and industrial use across the region.
Four potential pipeline corridors were considered as part of the work, taking account of environmental, engineering and cost factors. Two of these have emerged as viable options for further development, either reducing construction complexity or enabling reuse of existing infrastructure.
The study also identifies strong potential for hydrogen storage in the South West, including opportunities in Cornwall, and connections to wider regional storage projects.
SWBC’s Spring Conference brings together businesses, infrastructure providers and policymakers to highlight the scale of activity underway across the South West and the role the region is playing in supporting UK economic growth.
WWU’s Head of Net Zero & Sustainability at WWU, Matt Hindle, said:
“The South West is a clean energy pioneer, and already one of the most important regions in the UK for green gas production. Hydrogen can help make best use of the South West’s potential for renewable power generation, while meeting some of the region’s most difficult decarbonisation challenges.
“Developing Hyline South West will give confidence to producers and users on the long term viability of a hydrogen economy. We look forward to working in partnership with industry and regional and national government to advance these plans.”
Subject to funding, the next phase of the project will focus on refining route options, developing the engineering design and continuing engagement with potential producers, users and partners across the hydrogen supply chain.
Wales & West Utilities is the gas emergency and pipeline service, delivering energy to over 7.5 million people across Wales and the south west of England. We don’t sell gas; we transport it through an extensive underground network of more than 35,000 kilometres of pipes.
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