We just found out that NW Natural, the state’s largest methane gas utility, has begun blending hydrogen into the gas system and delivering it to Oregonians’ homes and businesses without any public outreach or oversight. Burning hydrogen with methane in buildings increases exposure to health harms and increases safety risks while offering negligible reductions in the amount of climate and other air pollution released.
In particular, burning blends of hydrogen and methane can increase the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) pollutants that are released, compared to burning methane alone. NOx exposure can cause serious health effects, including asthma and increased chance of developing respiratory infections. Hydrogen is also more likely to leak from existing gas pipes and appliances, further increasing health and safety risks in our homes and buildings.
NW Natural tried this before in Eugene. In 2022, the company attempted to launch a hydrogen blending project but, after significant customer backlash, the project was put on permanent hold citing the need for further community engagement. This time, instead of prioritizing public engagement when they began their Portland project, it appears that NW Natural decided to sidestep noifying their customers altogether.
Customers have the right to know what is being piped into their homes.
Urge your legislator to take action to protect your rights, your safety and your health by clicking here!
Hydrogen blending and burning with methane gas is not an effective climate solution to decarbonize homes and buildings, but there are real solutions available that also improve our health and comfort. This includes installing electric heat pumps or induction cooktops, and other energy efficient appliances.
To be clear, there are exciting opportunities to leverage green electrolytic hydrogen as an effective climate solution! We need leaders to be focused on these real solutions, and not distracted by deception and false promises.
Stay tuned for more from Climate Solutions about the exciting world of green hydrogen and how it can reduce climate pollution. For now, make sure your legislator hears from you: Companies should not be allowed to introduce new chemicals into our homes without public notice or regulatory oversight.
