Assessing the Impact of Hydrogen Production on Water Resources in Scotland

Scotland Gas Networks and Ramboll assessed water supply requirements for hydrogen production through 2045, Scotland’s target for net zero Greenhouse Gas emissions. The locations of new hydrogen projects were mapped to identify fifteen hydrogen regions. The wider relevant society infrastructure was mapped, including population centers, wind farms, natural gas pipelines, industry, and transportation hubs. The regional water demand for hydrogen production was determined as a fraction of the water available from each of five potential water sources: surface water, groundwater, potable water, sea water, and effluent. The cost of treatment and infrastructure was estimated, and the resiliency of each source was assessed relative to eleven criteria. In most regions, surface water was a potential water supply resource; although effluent and sea water were ranked higher due to less competitive uses, and reduced risks related to seasonal variability and variation due to climate change.