What’s the Problem?
Currently gas distribution networks (GDNs) operate their medium pressure (MP) network to a maximum of 2 bar. When the network pressure is at or close to this maximum operating pressure (MOP), biomethane injection points are restricted to ensure that the pressure rating is not exceeded.
As biomethane is a key enabler for the net zero transition, Northern Gas Networks (NGN) are keen to ensure that biomethane production and injection is maximised across their network.
There is concern within NGN that the current rated operating conditions for their MP network do not provide sufficient headroom to accommodate enough additional biomethane injection to meet their ambitions.
Preferred Output
NGN would like to investigate the feasibility of increasing the maximum pressure of biomethane injection into the local MP network by an additional 0.5 bar. They are specifically seeking a study that will address the following key points of interest:
- What is the specific quantifiable value/benefit of a relatively small pressure increase (0.5 bar) at the injection points?
- Are downstream network assets (such as meters and governors) able to operate above 2 bar?
- What will the impact be to downstream customers and their assets?
- What could the operational disruption be, should field validation be required?
- Can it be ensured that the approach is compliant, auditable and transferable to other biomethane connection scenarios?
- What are the engineering, safety and governance requirements for re-rating the existing MP infrastructure?
The outputs of this project will be used to create an evidence-led method for assessing, validating and monitoring higher-pressure biomethane injections on local MP networks.
Deadline
The deadline for this opportunity is 11.59pm on 29 October 2026.
Q&A Registration
The Q&A for this opportunity will take place on 16 October 2026 at 10am; you can register to attend below. Please send us your questions by 5pm on 14 October 2026, marking your message with the name of this opportunity.