Fighting climate change with a transformative solution: modular embedded hydrogen and biomethane reactors that can decarbonise the gas grid with unparalleled efficiency and versatility.
Executive Summary
As the world accelerates its transition to net zero, one vital resource remains underutilised: the gas grid. While the UK’s electricity grid has embraced green electrons, now comprising up to 50% of supply, its gas grid lags behind at just 2% green molecules (International Energy Agency). By contrast, Denmark’s gas grid is already 40% green, providing a clear roadmap for what’s possible (International Energy Agency).
Wild Hydrogen offers a transformative solution: modular embedded hydrogen and biomethane reactors that can decarbonise the gas grid with unparalleled efficiency and versatility. These reactors represent a revolutionary step forward, producing green gases 3-5 times more efficiently than traditional anaerobic digesters (AD) while accepting a wider range of biogenic and plastic waste feedstocks.
The Challenge
The UK gas grid, a critical energy infrastructure, faces mounting pressure to decarbonise. Yet the narrative surrounding its future often focuses on decommissioning rather than innovation. Hard-to-abate sectors – those unable to electrify easily – require a viable alternative to achieve their net-zero targets.
Globally, forward-thinking countries like Denmark have embraced the potential of the gas grid, integrating biomethane and other green gases at scale. In 2023, the Danish Energy Agency reported that gas consumption in Denmark consisted of 39% biomethane and 61% natural gas, demonstrating the success of this approach (International Energy Agency). The UK, however, remains at the start of this journey, with only 2% of its gas grid comprising green molecules.
The Solution
Wild Hydrogen’s modular embedded reactors are a game-changer. Designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing gas grid infrastructure, they:
- Follow the proven commercial and operational pathways of anaerobic digesters.
- Deliver a substantially higher biomass conversion efficiency, meaning no digestate is produced.
- Process diverse materials, from traditional biogenic inputs to dry woody matter and even food-contaminated plastics.
- Capture and sequester carbon, enabling the production of carbon-negative fuels.
The UK gas grid is already a powerful energy storage mechanism, with the capacity to store significant volumes of gas. This makes it a critical asset in balancing seasonal energy demand and providing short-term storage, far surpassing the storage capacity of the electricity grid (Fuel Oil News).
The Opportunity
Wild Hydrogen’s strategy is to start with biomethane, aligning with existing grid capabilities, and transition to hydrogen as blending limits increase to 20%. This phased approach allows for immediate action while preparing for future advancements in infrastructure and policy.
By embracing this technology, the UK can:
- Rapidly increase the share of green molecules in the gas grid.
- Provide a scalable, carbon-negative energy solution for hard-to-abate sectors.
- Position itself as a global leader in gas grid innovation.
A Vision for the Future
Imagine a world where the gas grid is a force for good, not a relic of the fossil fuel era. By adopting modular embedded biomethane and hydrogen reactors, the UK can replicate the success of embedded electricity generation, flooding the grid with green molecules. This approach will drive decarbonisation, support industries that cannot electrify, and provide the storage and flexibility needed to balance renewable energy systems. With bold action, the UK and the rest of Europe can achieve what Denmark has already begun: a thriving, sustainable gas grid—and we can go one step further by providing a carbon-negative option.
The time to act is now. Policymakers, industry leaders, and investors must recognise the transformative potential of embedded gas reactors. Wild Hydrogen is poised to lead this charge, delivering innovative solutions that ensure the gas grid remains a cornerstone of a net-zero future.
For more information, read about our RiPR solution here.
