SDG&E seeks permit for hydrogen blending trial

San Diego Gas & Electric Company (SDG&E) plans to study blending hydrogen with natural gas in the gas system of the University of California San Diego (UC San Diego) campus.

The company said on Monday it has filed the proposed project with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). If granted approval, the utility will explore the feasibility of injecting up to 20% of hydrogen into a plastic natural gas pipe, which is commonly used in the natural gas infrastructure.

The trial will cover a UC San Diego apartment complex, where hydrogen blended gas will be used in equipment such as boilers and water heaters. The hydrogen will be produced on-site via a grid-connected electrolyser. Construction of the project is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2024, with blending taking place from late 2024 through early 2026.

The study will provide input to help develop a renewable hydrogen blending standard for California, according to the announcement.

“Achieving the state’s climate goals, including reaching carbon neutrality by 2045, will require a broad range of clean energy technologies,” said SDG&E chief executive Caroline Winn. “That’s why we are investing in the research, development and demonstration of emerging hydrogen innovations that have the potential to be a game changer,” added Winn.

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