New sensor technology could enable green gas to grow 10x in the UK.
This pioneering project will see gas distribution networks (GDNs) Cadent, SGN, Wales & West Utilities and Gas Networks Ireland work with innovators Bohr, Renda and Thyson Technology (part of the nZero Group) to develop new sensors that accurately measure the energy content of gas across the network.
The technology could significantly enable radical accelerated growth of green gases such as biomethane and hydrogen.
Gas customers are currently billed on energy density measurements taken far upstream, which can pose challenges to green gas producers connecting to distribution networks.
The three new types of sensors being developed will allow for measurements of calorific value across the distribution network without the need to vent gas. This project aims to find a solution to this challenge that is accurate, fair and affordable, and provide GDNs with increased visibility of their network operations.
Each of the innovators will develop and test a number of prototype sensors over the next 12 months, with an aim to progress to a small-scale pilot trial in 2026.
The project will be facilitated by the Energy Innovation Centre (EIC), based in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire and delivered using the Network Innovation Allowance (NIA) and Gas Networks Ireland’s Network Based Innovation Fund.
Jane Blackwell, Head of Operations at the EIC said: “This is a hugely exciting project to launch and one we’re delighted to be managing. The benefits could be extensive, from fairer bills to customers to supporting net zero targets.
“We look forward to working with the gas networks and technical partners to deliver this fascinating project.”
Johana Duran Santos, Project Manager at SGN, said: “The Gas Calorific Value Sensor project is a key initiative, pivotal in enabling a fair, transparent and accurate method to measure calorific value across our entire network. Its outputs are critical in sustaining our operational excellence and safety, while also supporting the development of future solutions such as RTSM. We are pleased to collaborate with outstanding gas networks and EIC to drive innovation and support the decarbonisation of the sector.”
Matt Hindle, Head of Net Zero & Sustainability at Wales & West Utilities: “Green gasses are critical to help the UK reduce carbon emissions while providing secure, reliable energy to homes, industry and other businesses. 130 biomethane plants area already connected across the country, but we want to see the sector grow significantly from this strong base. A smarter gas network supported by the CV sensors developed in this project, will be able to bring more green gas to consumers, helping them to reduce emissions without needing to make more disruptive changes.”
Paul O’Dwyer, Innovation Delivery Manager at Gas Networks Ireland: “Gas Networks Ireland is delighted to collaborate with gas utilities from across the UK and the Energy Innovation Centre on this important project. Developing innovative new sensor technology is a key step in enabling renewable gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen, to play a greater role in our energy system. This initiative supports our ambition to deliver a net zero carbon gas network for Ireland by 2045.”
Adam Hassall, Innovation Specialist at Cadent: “We are excited to play a lead role in this initiative, which places collaboration at its heart and could become the cornerstone for how greener alternative gasses are utilised across the UK energy market in the future.”
