INTEGRATING hydrogen into a controversial project to develop huge gas storage caverns under Larne Lough at Islandmagee is “technically feasible based on existing technologies”, a new report has found.
But it will cost at least £168 million more in capital expenditure than originally envisaged, according to the study by Atkins.
Harland & Wolff is behind the scheme off the Co Antrim coast, which would see seven large caverns built below Larne Lough in an area is where various scenes from the hit series Game of Thrones were filmed.
Environmental groups claim the project threatens wildlife and undermines action on climate change.
Last year H&W commissioned a wide-ranging concept study by Atkins into the Islandmagee gas storage facility looking at integrating hydrogen into the equipment at the facility.
And the report says that while it is “technically feasible based on existing technologies”, an additional capital expenditure of £168 million would be needed to introduce compression, dehydration, and cooling.
The investment will carry “no incremental costs” for drilling, leaching and creation of a salt cavern.
H&W says “there is minimal difference from a cavern perspective as to what gas medium is stored.”
The report found that existing systems at the site can work with hydrogen, but wherever possible developing hydrogen facilities would be “economically and operationally prudent”.
In a statement the company said it believes the study and the report's findings takes it one step further in future proofing the project and preparing it for the transition from a natural gas to a hydrogen-led economy.
The findings of the Atkins study will be shared with the company's current and future counterparties which will stimulate further detailed conversations on mechanisms to monetise the project.
"We will make further announcements in due course in relation to this project," H&W said.
