The GS008 licence is located east of the GS007 Bains licence, granted in 2023, where dCarbonX is transforming the depleted Bains gas field into a 1.4 billion cubic meter (BCM) offshore gas storage facility. The Gateway project aims to develop hydrogen storage caverns in modular phases, aligned with market demand, pending additional regulatory approvals. With a potential capacity of approximately 9 terawatt-hours (TWh), the facility is expected to play a significant role in the UK’s long-term clean energy strategy.
A dCarbonX spokesperson stated: “The Gateway caverns will be developed in modular economic steps, synchronised with the market.” This approach ensures flexibility and scalability, positioning the project to meet future energy storage needs effectively.
As a subsidiary of Snam, a major European gas infrastructure operator, dCarbonX leverages extensive expertise. Snam manages a 40,000-kilometer pipeline network, one-sixth of the EU’s gas storage capacity (18 BCM), and regasification facilities handling 28 BCM annually. This experience supports dCarbonX’s efforts to advance the Gateway project through the necessary regulatory processes.
The GS008 licence enables dCarbonX to pursue final approvals from the NSTA and other authorities before commencing operations. The project is designed to enhance the UK’s energy security by providing robust hydrogen storage, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources into the national grid.
The Gateway initiative reflects the UK’s commitment to sustainable energy infrastructure. By developing advanced storage solutions, dCarbonX aims to contribute to the nation’s decarbonization efforts, ensuring a stable and clean energy supply for future decades.
