Energy Act 2023

153 Modifications of the gas code

(1) For the purposes of this section, “hydrogen grid conversion trial” means a scheme designated by the Secretary of State that—

(a) relates to a particular place or area (the “trial location”),

(b) is designed to gather evidence for the purpose of enabling assessments to be made about the feasibility, costs and benefits of using hydrogen for heating or cooking,

(c) requires the network for supplying gas to the trial location to be modified so as to enable the supply of hydrogen, and

(d) is intended to have effect for a definite period.

(2) Schedule 2B to the Gas Act 1986 (the gas code) applies in relation to a hydrogen grid conversion trial—

(a) as if references to a gas transporter included a person (other than a gas transporter) who is conducting the trial, and

(b) as if it were modified in accordance with subsections (3) to (5).

(3) Paragraph 16 (alterations etc of burners on change of calorific value) applies as if—

(a) in sub-paragraph (1), the words “at a rate not exceeding 75,000 therms a year” were omitted, and

(b) in sub-paragraph (2), the steps required to be taken in respect of premises in the trial location also included any works required in respect of the premises (other than works already mentioned in sub-paragraph (2)) for the purposes or in consequence of the trial.

(4) Paragraph 23 (entry of premises during supply) applies as if the power conferred by sub-paragraph (1)(a) included power to enter premises in the trial location for the purpose of inspecting anything on the premises, or carrying out any tests on the premises, in preparation for or otherwise in connection with the trial.

(5) Paragraph 24 (entry of premises to discontinue supply) applies as if the power conferred by sub-paragraph (2) were exercisable for the purposes of the trial—

(a) in relation to any premises in the trial location, and

(b) notwithstanding sub-paragraph (1).

(6) For the purposes of the application of the Rights of Entry (Gas and Electricity Boards) Act 1954 in relation to a relevant power of entry (see paragraph 28(5) of Schedule 2B to the Gas Act 1986), the reference in section 1(2) of the 1954 Act to a gas operator includes a reference to a person (other than a gas transporter) who is conducting a hydrogen grid conversion trial.

(7) In subsection (6), “relevant power of entry” means a power of entry conferred by Schedule 2B to the Gas Act 1986, as it applies by virtue of this section in relation to a hydrogen grid conversion trial.