Worley alongside its consulting business, Advisian, has been chosen to undertake a detailed assessment of Xcel Energy’s natural gas system in the U.S.

The study will determine the feasibility of injecting and blending H₂ into Xcel Energy’s 36,000 miles of distribution pipeline and 2,200 miles of transmission pipeline. It will evaluate what percentage of injected H₂ the system can accommodate, and what upgrades are necessary to optimize the blended quantity. The injection and blending of H₂ into the natural gas system will help Xcel Energy meet its low-carbon objectives, which aligns with Worley’s purpose of delivering a more sustainable world.

Advisian’s multi-criteria assessment approach is state-of-the-art and has been developed by subject matter experts with experience and knowledge from similar projects taking place across the globe. The Worley Group’s involvement in the project will entail reviewing all assets, including compression stations, meters and facilities. The team will assess each system, area, and location to evaluate their maximum allowable H₂ blending capability. These results will contribute to the recommendations developed by Worley to identify what the current system can accommodate and where upgrades are needed to enhance the system and increase the blend percentages.

Once the assessment is complete in July 2023, it will provide Xcel Energy with the data required to guide informed decisions on how to proceed with upgrades and adaptations to their midstream infrastructure. This will help Xcel Energy continue to provide affordable, clean energy to its 2.1-MM customers.

Oliver Morgan, Global Vice President of Midstream at Worley said, “We’re excited to be bringing our global expertise in H₂ blending and pipeline integrity to the developing U.S. market. Our ability to bring together the best experts and solutions to any project or customer has positioned us well to deliver this exciting study. The potential that H₂ has to support the energy transition will help Xcel Energy achieve its clean energy goals, and we are pleased to be involved in their journey, to determine their system’s suitability to participate in the H₂ economy.”