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2009

RTN modelling- Bio Methane

Abstract

The UK gas networks are undergoing a major transition to support the integration of green gases, including biomethane and hydrogen. A significant challenge is the inability of the current design modelling. Cadent’s current modelling relies on outdated assumptions and lacks the granular, real-time demand insight needed for modern, decarbonising gas networks. Existing tools cannot capture intra-day demand variability, below-7-bar network complexity, or the growing impact of biomethane injections—creating risks in planning, operational decisions, and reinforcement strategy.

RTN addresses these challenges by delivering accurate, weather-adjusted, consumer-level demand modelling and integrated analysis across pressure tiers. This enhances forecasting, improves biomethane integration, and strengthens model validation and operational control. In the future state, RTN provides Cadent with a modern, data-rich, and automated modelling capability that reduces unnecessary reinforcement, improves customer outcomes, supports the energy transition, and lays the foundation for potential future use in peak-demand modelling and regulatory engagement.

This programme is leveraging the data and learning from historic projects to develop a range of novel network modelling tools that will enable bio gas designs to be informed, consumer focused and optimised for localised conditions and demands.

The RTN project creates significant opportunity for new learning by improving how network demand, utilisation, and variability are understood at a granular level. By replacing legacy assumptions with time‑detailed, site‑specific evidence, the project will generate insight into real network behaviour under low‑demand and high biomethane penetration conditions. This learning will directly support the betterment of biomethane connection designs, enabling more proportionate, evidence‑based decisions to be embedded into the detailed design process. Over time, this will reduce conservative design bias, improve consistency, and increase confidence that biomethane connections are optimised for both network capability and customer value.

file format pdf download Project_Eligibility_Assessment_NIA_CAD0163_26-3-2026.pdf
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2026-03-01
2026-04-03
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