Plug Power Inc (PLUG)

[Jack_Bolander]

Hydrogen Pipeline Issues

For those hoping that natural gas pipelines will be putting really expensive hydrogen into gas pipelines, here is another reason/problem why this won't be happening.

Xcel Energy's (a US Based Natural Gas pipeline system) demonstration project to blend hydrogen into its natural gas grid has been delayed at least until next spring at the earliest. Given the controversy surrounding the project from angry homeowners and environmentalists and unanswered questions surrounding steel embrittlement, leakage, and hydrogen's effects on appliances; and this project is likely to be delayed even further beyond next year.

Physicians for Social Responsibility are on record saying prolonging the use of gas pipelines is bad for the environment, bad for peoples' health, and poses safety concerns. One thing I didn't know is that increased hydrogen blends in natural gas increase nitrous oxide emissions, a indoor pollutant known to exacerbate childhood asthma.