Wales & West Utilities has been announced as a key partner with Pembrokeshire County Council to deliver the Milford Haven: Energy Kingdom (MH:EK) project – to meet the Prospering from the Energy Revolution Industrial Strategy Challenge.
Over £2million has been given by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to run the project, which will deliver a detailed design for the Milford Haven waterway area. It will trial new technology, which could become a blueprint for greener local energy generation and will contribute to the UK and Welsh Government’s goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050.
MH:EK is a 22-month project aiming to accelerate the transition to an integrated hydrogen and renewable energy system. It will look at local renewable energy, including offshore wind and biomass, transitioning to decarbonised gas to power buildings, transport and industry, consumer trials of fuel cell vehicles and hybrid heating systems and comprehensive energy systems modelling.
The project is one of 10 ground-breaking smart energy projects across the UK which has seen a total of £21million of funding provided. Each competition winner aims to create a pipeline of highly innovative, ambitious and investable local energy system designs that will be ready to roll out across the UK.
Chris Clarke, Wales & West Utilities Energy Strategy Director, said:
“We’re committed to play our part in tackling the Climate Emergency so are delighted to be part of this innovative project – which will play an important role in the green energy future.
“Green gases like hydrogen and biomethane can not only decarbonise home heating, but also help heavy industry in Wales and beyond meet Net Zero. And they can do this in a way that minimises disruption to lives and communities and keeps energy bills affordable”
Minister for Business, Energy and Clean Growth, Kwasi Kwarteng, said:
“Every corner of the UK has a part to play as we eliminate our contribution to climate change entirely by 2050. This funding will deliver energy savings and reduce carbon emissions – a win-win for communities and the environment. If successful, the community pilot projects, which span from Liverpool and Coventry, to Southend and Milford Haven, could revolutionize local energy generation – bringing local communities into the frontline in the fight against climate change.“
Wales & West Utilities, the gas emergency and pipeline service, brings energy to 7.5m people across the south west of England and Wales. If anyone smells gas, thinks they have a gas leak, or suspects carbon monoxide poisoning, they should call us on 0800 111 999 and our engineers will be there to help, day or night.
Our team is also working on a multi-million pound, 30-year gas pipe investment programme which began in 2002. Old metal pipes within 30 metres of buildings are being upgraded to make sure homes and businesses continue to receive a safe and reliable gas supply now and in the future.
