Southwest Gas Truckee Hydrogen project progresses
This project aims to provide critical data to help create the nation’s first hydrogen-injection standard for natural gas operators.
Southwest Gas Corporation is translating purpose into action with its proposed hydrogen-blending demonstration project (Project) filed with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC).
The project was submitted as part of a Joint Application with Southern California Gas Company and San Diego Gas and Electric Company, which also filed proposed hydrogen projects within their respective service territories.
Southwest Gas’ Project proposal, if approved, will produce vital information toward implementing meaningful, practical and sustainable energy solutions with measurable impact toward the Truckee Town Council’s goal of an 80% reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040 and further contributes to Southwest Gas’ greater efforts and integral role in supporting economy-wide climate and environmental goals.
The project aims to establish critical knowledge complementary to the other joint utility Applicants’ demonstration projects while uniquely targeting hydrogen-blending scenarios in extreme cold weather and high-elevation conditions, such as those experienced in the Truckee area.
Given the extreme weather spectrum across California, the Town of Truckee presents a unique opportunity to determine optimal hydrogen-blend percentages in extremely cold areas.
Over an 18-month period, the project will test a blend of 5% to 20% hydrogen with natural gas, flowing through plastic and steel pipelines. The hydrogen used in this test is created through the process called electrolysis which separates hydrogen from oxygen in water – a low- to no-carbon generating process that releases oxygen beneficially into our atmosphere and stores hydrogen for use, further reducing GHG emissions.
Dr. Laura S. Nelson, vice president of sustainability and public policy, said, “Hydrogen and RNG are powerful solutions for our energy future that are helping to transform how we fuel our lives, homes and businesses while honouring our commitment to environmental stewardship and emissions reductions for long-term change.”
