National Grid to switch MA, NY gas networks to RNG and hydrogen by 2050

Utility National Grid (NYSE:NGG) on Tuesday unveiled plans for fossil-free gas and electric networks in Massachusetts and New York by 2050.

The company will aim to replace fossil fuel in its gas networks with renewable natural gas (RNG) and green hydrogen, with complementary measures including increased energy efficiency, electrification and networked geothermal.

“Just as we are investing in renewables like wind and solar to decarbonise the energy running through our electric network, we are committing to decarbonise our gas network by transitioning it completely to renewable natural gas and hydrogen by 2050 or sooner,” explained National Grid chief executive John Pettigrew. The company’s networks serve more than 20 million people in New York, Massachusetts and Rhode Island.

The plan, called National Grid’s Clean Energy Vision: A fossil-free future for cleanly heating homes and businesses, is being described by the CEO as “an historic announcement” for the company and the US.

The building heat sector is estimated to account for 39% of emissions in Massachusetts and New York.

National Grid is looking to partner on delivering its vision with policymakers, regulators and its customers.

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