Skip to content
2009

Network Intelligence: Bio- Methane Retractable Probe

Abstract

The Retractable Probe directly tackles a critical constraint in biomethane integration: the disconnect between modelled and actual network capacity during low-demand periods. By enabling real-time, high-resolution flow data from retrofitted PRIs, this innovation unlocks latent capacity, allowing for more confident, dynamic flow commitments. With proven international precedents and a low-cost, scalable design, the probe offers a transformative step toward decarbonising the UK’s gas infrastructure—turning data scarcity into actionable intelligence and accelerating the transition to a greener, more resilient energy system.

This trial will demonstrate how effectively advanced probes can be deployed across different parts of the gas network, creating an opportunity to learn how they perform in real-world conditions and integrate with existing infrastructure. By capturing real-time flow data, the project will generate fresh insights into network behaviour, revealing where additional capacity may exist and how system performance can be optimised. These learnings could play a key role in enabling greater biomethane connections, supporting the UK’s transition to a low-carbon energy system.

Testing a range of probe technologies will provide valuable evidence on which solutions are most practical and cost-effective for large-scale deployment. Beyond the technical findings, the project will bring together expertise from engineering, operations, and procurement, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing that will shape future strategies. Ultimately, this work will explore how enhanced visibility of the network could reduce costs, improve planning, and deliver long-term benefits for customers and the wider energy system.

file format pdf download NIA_CAD0133_NIA_Project_Eligibility_Assessment_2025-12-09.pdf
Loading

Article metrics loading...

/content/projects/NIA_CAD0133
2025-07-01
2025-12-20
This is a required field
Please enter a valid email address
Approval was a Success
Invalid data
An Error Occurred
Approval was partially successful, following selected items could not be processed due to error
Please enter a valid_number test