Research released by energy consultant Energetics proposes low carbon gas policy incentives that could help efforts to decarbonise the nation’s economy and support renewable gas for Australia’s future.

The report was launched at the Renewable Gas in Australia Symposium, jointly hosted by Energy Networks Australia and Bioenergy Australia.

Energy Networks Australia CEO, Andrew Dillon, said the research was a welcome contribution to work such as the National Hydrogen Strategy, exploring how to harness existing resources and new technologies to help reduce emissions.

Recent advice released by Energy Networks Australia confirmed that injection of hydrogen into the gas distribution network can be done under current gas legislation.

“Hydrogen can play an important role in not only helping Australia’s gas networks decarbonise but as energy storage,” Mr Dillon said.

“Flexible hydrogen production can help soak up excess renewable electricity on sunny and windy days, then fuel cells can generate emissions-free power on still evenings.”

As demonstrated in Energy Networks Australia’s Gas Vision 2050 report, hydrogen’s scope is impressive, with potential to widen customers’ power options, improve and increase renewable generation, provide options for mobility and even create a new energy export market.