Installation of a hydrogen line
A new green hydrogen line is about to be built in Gatineau to bring this green, local and renewable energy to our region. This line will feed into Gazifère’s natural gas distribution system as well as supply interested industrial and commercial customers in the Outaouais.
The aim of this unique project is to take a big step forward in reducing reliance on fossil fuels (such as diesel and heavy oil) and greenhouse gas emissions.
An engineering study is current underway to determine the exact parameters required to implement such a project. Current Gazifère customers should not have any concerns: in 2023, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) announced that a 5% blend of hydrogen in the natural gas system would have no impact on appliances, and research is currently underway to determine whether that proportion could be raised to 20%, as is already the case in Europe.
The route
There will be a period of public consultations to identify the best route for the line between the production point in Gatineau and the service addresses. The line will roughly extend over approximately 20 km, from Buckingham to the airport sector.
Different routes will be considered during the public consultations, and we invite interested parties to follow developments over the coming months. (more information coming soon)
Upon conclusion of the public consultations, a final route will be determined based on technical, environmental and socio-economic constraints.
Project timeline
- Completed – Engineering study – Phase 1
- Underway – Engineering study – Phase 2
- Underway – Project planning, including public consultations (2023-2025)
- Coming – Construction (early 2025 – approximately 12 months)
- Coming – Start up (expected in 2026)
Information about the project
Project update
Public consultations will take place in the next few months. The project will be presented to interested parties and their views sought about the route.
Public consultation
More information coming soon
Regulatory information
Hydrogen lines are not regulated by the Régie de l’énergie. Even though the project does not meet the criteria of the Ministère de l’Environnement et de la Lutte contre les changements climatiques, de la Faune et des Parcs.
Contact
FAQ
What is renewable energy?
Renewable energy is any energy that can be reasonably quickly renewed naturally to be considered inexhaustible on the human time scale. Examples are hydroelectricity, wind and solar energy, as well as gas from renewable sources (renewable natural gas and green hydrogen)
What is hydrogen?
Hydrogen is the most abundant element in the universe, and is mainly found in water (H2O), hence the fact that one of its means of production is through electrolysis (Evolugen & Gazifère Inc. are working together on this project). By shooting a current through water, hydrogen can be separated from oxygen to create hydrogen gas (H2), a light, odourless and colourless gas. The hydrogen can then be transported through a line or by truck, to be used in industrial processes, fuel cells, or blended into the natural gas system.
What impact will the project have on GHG emissions?
Depending on its use, this project will reduce GHG emissions by approximately 15,000 tons annually, as well as generate significant local economic benefits, including new jobs and incremental property tax revenues.
How is the hydrogen distributed?
Green hydrogen is produced locally, here in the Outaouais, from water and clean electricity. Gazifère buys the hydrogen from producers, transports it to industrial and commercial customers, and injects it into its natural gas system. Once injected, the hydrogen blends with the traditional natural gas in the distribution system, supplying appliances connected to the system in the same way as traditional natural gas. This reduces GHG emissions by the appliances, and thus by customers.
What are the advantages of hydrogen for the planet?
- Hydrogen helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions
- Hydrogen replaces a fossil fuel by a renewable energy
What are the benefits to consumers?
- Clean and ecological: hydrogen enables customers to reduce their carbon footprint and make a contribution.
- No need to change any appliances! This simple energy source is transported and used in the same way as natural gas, but is green!
- Less carbon monoxide released: hydrogen has the advantage of not releasing any carbon monoxide. All other security measures applied to natural gas remain in effect.
Is hydrogen production considered carbon neutral?
Green hydrogen is produced from renewable electricity and water, and replaces the use of carbonated energy in sectors that are sometimes difficult to electrify, such as transportation and heavy industry. Thus, its use helps reduce carbon emissions from fossil fuels used to date, and therefore helps decarbonize the territory.
How much hydrogen will be injected in Gazifère’s system?
Gazifère will continue to work with regulatory agencies to determine the appropriate proportion of hydrogen in its system. In 2023, the Canadian Standards Association (CSA) declared that a 5% blend of hydrogen in the system has no impact on appliances, and research is underway to determine whether that proportion could be increased to 20%, as is the case in Europe.
What proportion of hydrogen should I choose?
Gazifère will determine the proportion of hydrogen that will be injected into the system based on technical, regulatory and operational considerations. Regardless of the concentration, there will be no impact on customers connected to the natural gas system, and they will continue to be billed according to the amount of energy delivered.
How can I reduce my energy consumption?
Gazifère suggests simple, efficient and practical ways to reduce energy consumption, such as installing a smart thermostat. In addition, Gazifère is offering $100 to customers who purchase and install one. Click here for additional information.
Never turn off your thermostat, but instead program it, and keep a 30 Celsius difference between the temperature you want when you are home and the temperature you program when you are out or at night.
For additional information about our energy efficiency programs, consult our guide on cash incentives.
