Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of the proportion of consumers who (1) will participate in the Hydrogen Heating Village Trial, (2) will decline to participate in the hydrogen heating village trial and receive an alternative heating solution, (3) will be disconnected from natural gas without their consent, and (4) will be agreed by their Gas Distribution Network Operators (GDNs) to be unable to participate in the trial.

The Government has asked the gas networks to engage with local consumers to develop an attractive offer that encourages as many consumers in the trial area as possible to participate. This includes alternative heating solutions and appliances for those who are unable or do not wish to take part. In their trial proposals due in March, the gas networks must include the outcomes of their local engagement and evidence of the likely uptake of both hydrogen and the alternative offer. We will not go ahead with a trial in an area where there is not strong local support.