We’re taking innovative steps to further integrate biomethane into our network
Championing security of supply whilst reducing emissions, we’ve now connected enough biomethane capacity to meet the average energy demand of 161,000 homes. Our Smart Pressure Control (SPC) trails have been introduced so we can go further. The trials are engineered to increase biomethane capacity all year-round, autonomously managing fluctuations in demand. By addressing the critical issue of network pressures, we could facilitate carbon displacement of over 100,000 tonnes of CO2e annually.
As the first of their kind in the gas distribution sector, the SPC trials are engineered to increase biomethane capacity all year-round, autonomously managing fluctuations in demand.
Currently connected biomethane plants can struggle to inject into the network at times of low demand due to a lack of capacity in the networks and high network pressures - meaning biomethane plants cannot reach their full production capacity.
This Utonomy solution allows smart automated pressure control meaning that the network pressures can change automatically in response to the extremity or bio entry gas site pressure.
Using solar/battery-powered motorised actuators, our dynamic system seamlessly integrates with our SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Aquisition) technology, managing system pressures in response to exit and entry requirements.
This represents a vast improvement on manual adjustments and will support biomethane sites to maximise their export capacity. It also reduces the need for engineer call-outs - representing a cost saving for customers.
Our progress so far
- We are nearing the completion of Phase 1 roll out across four medium-pressure and three extremity sites.
- Following this, we will move into the installation of the Phase 2 sites - involving innovation at seven further control sites and five extremity locations.
- Enabling the connection of another three biomethane sites.
- Potentially adding 6,300 scm/year of green gas - enough to heat an additional 48,353 homes.
- Saving an estimated £10,000 per year on engineer callouts.
- Strengthening relationships across the network and with producers, increasing capacity for injection.
- Increased circular economy, especially across rural areas.
- Enhance biomethane’s reputation as a viable alternative to natural gas.
The road to net zero will need a range of technologies and approaches. We have an existing network that can and should be repurposed for green alternatives like biomethane. Biomethane can be used like natural gas in the network - helping lower emissions now. You as the customer do not need to make any costly changes to your appliances, and don’t notice any difference using biomethane.
Read cutting edge research from our team on the future of the energy system in the UK – and how we can deliver energy that is affordable, reliable and sustainable. We're keen to share our expertise and welcome new ideas that can support our journey.