We observed that, at the time of our evidence session, an announcement on a successful bidder for a hydrogen town, planned for the end of this decade, was delayed by 13 months. We asked DESNZ when an announcement could now be expected. DESNZ told us that it was considering its next steps on the hydrogen town trial and would set 48 Qq 67–68, 70, 80–82; C&AG’s Report, para 2.22; Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, UK heat networks: market overview, September 2023 49 DHH0003, Written evid...

We observed that, at the time of our evidence session, an announcement on a successful bidder for a hydrogen town, planned for the end of this decade, was delayed by 13 months. We asked DESNZ when an announcement could now be expected. DESNZ told us that it was considering its next steps on the hydrogen town trial and would set 48 Qq 67–68, 70, 80–82; C&AG’s Report, para 2.22; Department for Energy Security & Net Zero, UK heat networks: market overview, September 2023 49 DHH0003, Written evidence submitted by The Chartered Institute of Housing, 29 April 2024 50 Qq 67, 71–72, 80; C&AG’s Report, para 2.22 51 HM Government, Heat and buildings st Type: conclusion | Number: 29 | Response status: accepted Government response: 6.1 The government agrees with the Committee’s recommendation. Recommendation implemented 6.2 The government has a research and development programme to consider the costs, benefits, feasibility and safety of hydrogen heating. This includes: • Safety evidence, advice