Source · Select Committees · Scottish Affairs Committee
Recommendation 23
23
Deferred
Paragraph: 116
We recognise there is a mix of evidence on the role hydrogen can play in...
Conclusion
We recognise there is a mix of evidence on the role hydrogen can play in the decarbonisation of domestic heating and there is still a substantial amount of work being done that will determine its eventual use. However, in the meantime, the evidence in favour of mandating hydrogen-ready boilers in all suitable properties at the earliest opportunity is convincing, no matter what decision is eventually made on the blend of hydrogen in the system, or whether the system becomes a 100% hydrogen gas network. Assurances from the largest four boiler manufacturers indicate that hydrogen-ready boilers will be the same price as standard boilers, removing a key obstacle in rolling them out across UK households. It means millions more properties would be ready and able to switch to hydrogen sooner rather than later and with lower conversion costs, if required, should the UK Government opt for a low carbon hydrogen-based gas network.
Government Response Summary
The government consulted on mandating hydrogen-ready boilers from 2026 and is currently analysing the responses and will issue the Government response in due course.
Paragraph Reference:
116
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government
Deferred
The Government has recently consulted on proposals to require that from 2026 all newly installed domestic-scale natural gas boilers be hydrogen-ready, on the assumption that the following conditions can be met: • Hydrogen-ready boilers can satisfy regulatory requirements, including on safety and performance, once converted to operate on 100% hydrogen gas. • Price parity with natural gas boilers will be achieved when hydrogen-ready boilers reach natural gas only boiler sales totals. • A single market-wide definition of hydrogen-ready boilers is agreed, which ensures that products meeting this definition can prepare homes for possible 100% hydrogen conversions. We are currently analysing responses to the consultation and will issue the Government response in due course.