University of Aberdeen scientists are working on technology that will see electricity generated by renewables “banked” as green hydrogen in depleted oil and gas reservoirs.
Helping Scotland reach net zero and potentially become a net exporter of hydrogen, the research also has the potential to unlock a new lease of life for depleted oil and gas reservoirs and aquifers, along with their pipeline and well infrastructure, as well as to cut constraint payments that are made to windfarm operators. This would be because of the excess electricity they produce being converted to green hydrogen and then stored.
The first phase of research is already underway and entails a combination of modelling, simulation and laboratory experimentation being used to determine the most effective means of transporting hydrogen through the onshore and offshore North Sea pipeline network. The aim here is to develop digital tools that will enable the hydrogen to be transported to homes and businesses.
It is also looking into the co-storage of hydrogen and carbon dioxide in depleted hydrocarbon reservoirs and aquifers. The CO2, here, would be used as a “cushion” gas, with it noted this technique has never been attempted before.
Then, moving onto the second stage, field trials will take place, along with commercialisation through the potential formation of a spin-out company which could then drive forward the technology.
