Bosch unveils hydrogen hob with invisible flames that will be installed in 300 homes at H100 Fife project

Bosch, a renowned German manufacturer, has introduced a groundbreaking hydrogen hob that operates solely on hydrogen, marking a significant advancement in energy innovation. This innovative appliance is set to be integrated into 300 households participating in the H100 Fife initiative situated in Buckhaven, Scotland. This initiative represents the United Kingdom's exclusive endeavor to trial hydrogen for domestic heating and cooking purposes.

Hydrogen, known for its invisible and colorless flame, typically requires an additive like sodium carbonate to render it visible, as demonstrated in previous iterations of hydrogen stoves. However, the Bosch hob for Buckhaven households will not incorporate any additives, resulting in an invisible flame during daylight hours. Only under low-light conditions will a faint blue flame become discernible. To ensure safety, the burner knobs will illuminate when the flame is active, serving as a visual indicator.

Although burning hydrogen emits no carbon dioxide, it does produce nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas that is 280 times more impactful than CO2 over a two-decade span. Moreover, nitrogen oxides (NOx) are generated, posing risks to individuals, particularly those with respiratory conditions such as asthma. Even SGN, the primary distributor spearheading the H100 Fife trial, acknowledges the concerns regarding NOx emissions, expressing apprehension on its website.

Despite hydrogen boilers exhibiting significantly lower NOx levels compared to natural gas boilers, SGN refrains from providing assurances regarding stove-top emissions. The organization plans to conduct further assessments on NOx emissions from various hydrogen appliances, committing to ongoing monitoring and evaluation.

Scheduled for implementation in the summer of 2025, the H100 Fife project aims to utilize green hydrogen generated from local wind resources. Notably, similar hydrogen heating trials in Whitby and Redcar were abandoned due to local opposition.

Bosch unveiled its pioneering hob model at the recent EuroCucina trade exhibition held in Milan, showcasing its commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions.