Projects
Low Carbon Conversion of Non Domestic Properties Utilising Distributed Natural Gas
This project investigates the technical and economic feasibility of converting non-domestic buildings from natural gas to low carbon energy sources specifically hydrogen and electricity. It aims to address the significant evidence gap around the conversion of commercial and institutional buildings that are currently supplied by the GB gas distribution networks. The study will assess a wide range of building archetypes including care homes schools hospitality venues and light industrial sites using a combination of literature review site surveys detailed system designs and technoeconomic modelling. The outputs will inform future energy policy support infrastructure planning and help ensure safe and cost-effective deployment of low carbon technologies in non-domestic settings.
Domestic Air Ingress Mitigations
This project will help to provide assurance to UK Gas Distribution Network Operators (GDNOs) and wider industry on the safe design of domestic gas appliances in a future where hydrogen is being distributed in network pipelines. A risk to the normal safe operation of appliances under 100% hydrogen operation exists where a flammable hydrogen/air mixture is supplied to the appliance creating the potential for flashback to occur within the gas installation pipework. This work will provide assurance that domestic appliances designed to operate on 100% hydrogen are designed in a way which do not enable flashback to occur.
The project will also investigate the long-term feasibility of installing an auto-locking Emergency Control Valve (ECV) at the end of 100% hydrogen networks to ensure that any reinstatement of supply after a period of isolation can only be undertaken by a competent gas engineer.
Hydrogen device trials
In order to support UK ambitions for hydrogen blending and the development of a hydrogen economy National Gas will need to install new gas chromatographs with the capability to measure hydrogen up to 20% in a natural gas blend. At present hydrogen is not measured anywhere on the National Transmission System (NTS) and therefore there are no proven in-use devices and limited experience within the company to allow effective decision making in deploying these assets in the move towards net zero.
In order to make informed decisions ahead of chromatograph fleet upgrade and to allow for a wide selection of reliable device choices when it comes to that upgrade National Gas require the testing of available devices to analyse their performance and thus suitability for NTS installation. This project will employ a trusted testing house to obtain (through loaning) blend-ready chromatographs from suppliers and then to rigorously examine the performance of those devices. These devices could be tested at the testing house’s site or at the instrument vendor’s site.
Net Zero Impact on Wider Network Contents
This project aims to explore the impact of hydrogen blends (in natural gas) 100% hydrogen and carbon dioxide on contaminants (arisings) likely to be found in gas transmission pipelines (e.g. Naturally Occurring Radioactive Materials (NORMs) dusts mill scale welding slag glycols water BTEX methanol heavy metals sulphur compounds pyrophorics as well as rotating machinery lube/seal oils and valve sealants etc).
The project will aim to understand the current composition and characteristics of any contaminants the impact of hydrogen and carbon dioxide on the behaviour/composition/presence of contaminants establish how long methane related contaminants will persist on the network (for repurposed pipelines) the potential for contaminants to cause pipeline gas to go ‘off-spec’ and the implications of contaminant interactions on National Transmission System (NTS) operation/integrity.
Sector Size Assessment
This project will deliver a series of reports and presentations which reflect the need to minimise disruption during any conversion taking into account customer needs and the wider supply chain not just the needs of the GDN.
Rethinking Communication for Digital Exclusion
Problem Digital exclusion remains a significant challenge across the UK preventing many individuals—particularly those in vulnerable circumstances—from accessing critical information and services. As energy networks increasingly rely on digital channels for communication those without internet access digital skills or confidence in using online tools face barriers in receiving important updates such as emergency notifications and service disruptions. Current communication strategies while effective for digitally engaged users fail to reach those who are excluded due to economic geographic or personal barriers. This project seeks to bridge this gap by rethinking communication strategies to ensure all consumers regardless of digital access receive the information they need in a timely and accessible manner. Project Aims & Key Objectives Building upon the learnings from the previous Digital Exclusion project (NIA_CAD0088) this project aims to develop new inclusive communication strategies that enhance engagement with digitally excluded individuals. The research project will determine what new approaches may be able to be adopted by energy networks to aid consumers who could otherwise be left vulnerable due to being digitally excluded. By adopting a human-centred approach the project will:
- Understand how digitally excluded individuals currently access information and navigate daily life.
- Identify barriers in existing energy network communication strategies.
- Co-design and test new approaches that improve information delivery and engagement for those excluded from digital channels.
- Provide recommendations for scalable long-term improvements in energy communication infrastructure. Project Outputs The project will deliver the following tangible outputs across the following stages: Stage 0 – Outreach
- Identification of priority demographics which are most affected by digital exclusion.
- Engagement with several digital inclusion hubs to identify and introduce stakeholders to the project.
Project Plan – Rethinking Communication for Digital Exclusion
Stage 1 - Insight
- A comprehensive research report detailing the lived experiences of digitally excluded individuals.
- Analysis of existing communication strategies used by energy networks highlighting gaps and opportunities.
Stage 2 - Collaboration
- A series of co-design workshops engaging key stakeholders to generate and refine potential solutions.
- Prototype solutions tested in real-world settings with iterative refinement based on feedback.
Stage 3 - Impact
- A strategic roadmap for scaling successful solutions across the energy sector.
- A final report consolidating research insights prototype evaluations and recommended implementation strategies. Expected Benefits
- For digitally excluded consumers: More effective trusted and accessible communication methods ensuring they receive vital energy-related information.
- For energy networks: Improved customer engagement compliance with accessibility standards and enhanced reputation for supporting vulnerable groups.
- For wider stakeholders: Development of scalable best practices that can be applied beyond the energy sector to improve communication with digitally excluded populations. TRL
- Start TRL: 2 (Technology concept formulated)
- End TRL: 5 (Technology validated in a relevant environment)
Carbon Networks Phase 2
The UK Government has identified Carbon Capture Utilisation and Storage (CCUS) as a critical enabler of industrial decarbonisation committing £20 billion to early deployment and targeting 20-30 MtCO₂ stored annually by 2030. Much of the UK’s industrial emissions are geographically concentrated opening the door to targeted CCUS clusters that can deliver outsized impact. GDNs are well positioned to play a meaningful role in this emerging ecosystem.
In Carbon Networks Phase 1 Blunomy assessed the strategic fit between CCUS and the GDN business model. The study identified a range of potential roles including local CO₂ collection participation in transport and storage networks and support for blue hydrogen and CO₂ utilisation initiatives – and it highlighted the importance of early positioning to shape regulatory and commercial pathways.
Phase 2 aims to build on this foundation and move from conceptual framing to actionable insight. Blunomy in the next stage will explore specific industrial opportunities within SGN’s and WWU’s footprint engage with project developers and clusters and outline potential pilot activities. Alongside this the work will assess how CCUS participation aligns with SGN’s broader priorities and the implications for regulatory engagement and investment planning.
Novel Approach Secure Site Communications
The aim of this project is to study and recommend a a resilient solution for National Gas’ remote operations considering also harsh operational environments from a communications perspective. A technical study will be undertaken on mobile hybrid satellite-cellular terminals compatible with use with batteries targeting the National Gas operation teams deployed in locations where traditional connectivity options are limited or non-existent. There will be a focus on solutions that integrate cellular and satellite communication technologies suitable for its installation in the operation teams’ vehicles and that can also become a portable terminal for those areas that can only be reached by foot.
Use of AI in Learning & Development
To support the UK achieving net zero by 2050 there is a need to decarbonise the current gas networks of transmission and distribution levels. The conversion of the NTS into a hydrogen transmission network has been widely discussed and extensive work is underway to prove the technical capability and commercial viability of a 100% hydrogen network. There is also additional work to support the governments clean power targets and a three-molecule approach has been adopted within National Gas to consider (bio)methane hydrogen (including hydrogen blends) and carbon dioxide.
The gas networks need to be prepared to operate and safely manage the transportation of all three molecules especially with the ambition to develop a 100% hydrogen network in the future upskilling and training the current workforce and the workforce of the future is a fundamental step to ensuring the facilitation of the energy transition.
Identifying the skills and competencies required both during the transition and after the transition to maintain the future systems was discovered in the Skills and Competencies NIA that closed in Q4 2023. A competency framework was developed that will provide a baseline for the training and resourcing strategy proposed for operational and technical skills and competency requirements for current and future workforces.
The project produced a comprehensive plan to identify the known gaps and to provide a roadmap for key developments of standards and policies which will drive the training and competency needs. Furthermore it identified potential training facilities to support the development of the plan and ultimately facilitate rollout. The project also enabled a large-scale training and competency programme to be developed alongside the relevant technical standards and policies in readiness for deployment to the relevant engineers.
National Gas would therefore like to understand how AI tools can be used to accurately and efficiently produce training materials and create a more effective personalised training experience.
Fatigue Rig Destructive Testing
High pressure steel pipelines are essential in enabling a safe natural gas transportation network an overly engineered solution tried and tested over several decades proving the NTS to be a robust nationwide asset. The National Transmission System is used to flow gas every day to keep the lights on and our homes heated by connecting large scale industry cities and towns where the network is dynamic allowing for flexibility and adaptability to various flow demand scenarios. This is done so by utilising over 5000 miles of varying grades and differing sizes of pipelines where the gas can flow build line pack for high energy demand areas and provide a mass energy storage solution.
The NTS is used to limit gas loss manage flow direction facilitate maintenance repair modification testing and commissioning to enable safe and effective start-up and shutdown of our pipelines. We now must further evidence pipeline steel material integrity when subjected to high pressure hydrogen gas this can be done by expanding upon the existing fatigue rig standalone testing at DNV Spadeadam.
Although some pipelines materials that we use today have seen blends and 100% hydrogen within the HYNTS Phase 1 test facility what we have not done is post hydrogen fatigue cycling non destructive testing of materials that have been subject to prolonged high pressure hydrogen. One of the welds that make up the fatigue rig has a known weld defect within it NGT aims to have the welds and the weld defect analysed through various methods of testing such as magnetic particle inspection followed by if necessary standard ultrasonic testing.
In 2022 small scale mechanical characteristic tests were conducted to characterise the mechanical properties of the materials used within the construction of the fatigue rig this testing commenced outputting a standard mechanical property data set the new end of test data post hydrogen exposure will be compared to the original data set from 2022 at the end of fatigue cycling. Testing will establish the effect of trapped hydrogen on ‘standard’ mechanical properties measured To facilitate this DNV will remove all girth welds selected seam welds and fitting welds and store them at low temperature to mitigate loss of hydrogen from within the trap sites..
A technical note will be prepared comparing the results of the weld inspections (internal and external inspections). The note will be used to confirm defect removal for metallographic examination.
A technical report will be prepared summarising the macro and microscopic examinations undertaken confirming defect size (to that reported by UT) and whether the defect was an original feature else created due to the pressure cycle duty of the test vessel and the hydrogen environment.
Understanding the value of remote detectors
The statistical ‘value’ (i.e. risk reduction and cost) of remote hydrogen detectors has been determined through statistical based projects as part of the hydrogen heating programme (HHP). The cost has been shown to outweigh the risk however given hydrogen is not a mature heating solution the cost can be justified in response to risk appetite from key stakeholders such as consumers. This risk appetite is assumed. There is currently no analysis (qualitative or quantitative) into consumers attitudes towards the ‘value’ of remote detectors. This project will begin to explore the perception of risk reduction from remote detectors to be used to compliment the statistical based analysis to paint a fuller picture towards the utilisation and crucially the value of remote detectors.
Welding Residual Stress Measurements and Analysis for Gas Pipelines
This project concerns the research into welding residual stress values and the effect that they have on the overall pipework repurposing assessment route described in relevant hydrogen standards. Currently overly conservative values need to be applied for welding residual stresses in any repurposing assessment. This project aims to build evidence on actual and modelled residual stresses seen within the pipelines industries with a focus on natural gas pipelines. As the welding residual stress is a critical aspect of the fracture mechanics assessment any improvements which can be gained would have an overall positive impact on the assessment results.
Accuracy of electronic volume conversion systems when metering blends of hydrogen and natural gas
This project focuses on ensuring accurate volume conversion within gas metering processes as hydrogen is blended into the natural gas network across Great Britain. Accurate measurement is essential for fair billing and maintaining customer trust during the energy transition. The project will study real world metering installations assess potential errors caused by hydrogen blending and develop practical mitigation strategies. Findings will inform updates to industry guidance (IGEM/GM/5) supporting regulatory compliance and operational integrity.
Network Intelligence: Bio- Methane Retractable Probe
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.
HyProximity
This project aims to develop a robust evidence-based framework to support the introduction of standardised separation distance tables for 100% hydrogen similar in format and function to those in IGEM/TD/3 for natural gas and hydrogen blends. This will address a gap in current standards for hydrogen. The Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) are providing resource to support the project and to update any necessary standards.
GDN Gas Quality Forecasting
This project aims to develop a means of forecasting gas quality at the NTS offtakes which will support current arrangements for target Calorific Value (CV) setting allowing networks to more accurately provide target CVs to biomethane producers and reducing sudden changes in targets sent to biomethane sites which can cause operational problems. Going forward gas quality information on CV and potentially Wobbe will also assist the GDNs in managing hydrogen blend.
Hybrid Heat Systems (HHS) Acceleration Route
Project will deliver strategic analysis and recommendations to support the accelerated adoption of Hybrid Heat Systems (HHS) in GB. This includes assessing technology options commercial models stakeholder perspectives and system integration pathways. The work will result in actionable insights clear positioning of HHS within the wider decarbonisation strategy.
Hydrogen Blending Implementation Programme Phase 2B
Following the successful completion of Blending Implementation Plan (BIP) Phase 1 (Planning) in 2023 and BIP Phase 2A (Design) in 2025 the gas networks have engaged KPMG to proceed with the next phase of the programme BIP Phase 2B (Delivery).
Running from February 2026 to November 2026 and focusing on Market Frameworks impacts Phase 2B is required to build on the consensus achieved in Phase 2A and close out all implementation areas that require joint-decision making by the networks. These decisions pertain to detailed design of the application window and industry governance. The outcomes of Phase 2B will create a clear and consistent pathway for individual networks to support the application window and connections process alongside addressing common areas of industry governance based on collective decision making to meet timelines of future HAR.
Hydrogen-Enhanced Biomethane for Energy System Resilience
Biomethane from Anaerobic Digestion is currently injected into Gas Distribution Networks as a renewable alternative to fossil-fuel based natural gas.
AD plants currently supply largely constant flows whilst gas demand fluctuates daily and seasonally creating supply-demand imbalances which increase system balancing requirements.
Flexible locally produced biomethane could help GDNs manage system balance by increasing injection during demand peaks or cold spells.
This project will use biomethanisation injecting hydrogen to convert additional CO₂ within digesters to boost biomethane output dynamically supporting network balancing and Net-Zero ambitions.
Operational and regulatory frameworks will also be assessed to enable wider adoption of dynamic injection.
Catalysing Biomethane Growth in the UK
This project constitutes a UK-wide strategic assessment of the policy and regulatory frameworks governing biomethane production and grid injection with the objective of identifying how these frameworks can be updated to unlock growth. The review will examine the current policy landscape support mechanisms and regulatory arrangements affecting biomethane development including uncertainties associated with existing schemes and fragmented governance structures.
Simplifying Low Carbon Heat
This study examined options for making progress on domestic heat decarbonisation against an ongoing backdrop that most consumers in GB have not chosen to install heat pumps. The study finds that forcing consumers to do so is likely to increase costs for everyone and spark backlash against climate policy. The paper sets out the parameters for a more flexible pathway which supports technologies including hybrid heat pumps based on emissions and cost savings. The core finding is that by allowing consumers to transition more gradually to newer technologies this approach offers a lower-cost and more voter-friendly (and therefore deliverable) pathway to net zero.
Hydrogen Fracture Surfaces Assessment
The LTS Futures project aims to understand how the local transmission system (LTS) could be repurposed from Natural Gas to hydrogen. The project encompasses several elements which will feed into a blueprint methodology for repurposing the LTS to hydrogen. During one of the work elements LTS Futures conducted full-scale testing of pipeline defects and small-bore connections exposed to hydrogen. Testing was conducted until failure to provide information for hydrogen pipeline design standards and operational procedures. This project will undertake further detailed analysis of the fracture surfaces to provide a visual confirmation of hydrogen diffusion into the pipeline microstructure and if this contributed to failure.
Hazardous Areas Impact Mitigation (HAIM) Phase 3
NIA_NGN_346 demonstrated that in a 100% hydrogen conversion scenario hazardous areas of some above ground installations (AGIs) on the network would extend far beyond their current site boundaries. The Hazardous Area Impact Mitigation (HAIM) work programme was set up to investigate these findings and develop potential mitigations. Results highlighted discrepancies between the calculated values from the IGEM/SR/25 hydrogen supplement and empirical test measurements as well as revealed the compound impact of rounding on calculated hazardous zones.
HAIM 3 will propose two methods to reduce the specified zones from AGIs based on the evidence to date:
- Refine the IGEM/SR/25 supplement based on evidence from the HAIM results.
- Use the knowledge gained during the HAIM works to adapt AGI vents and sites to reduce plume sizes and hence exclusion zones. This is independent of any changes to IGEM/SR/25 and can be applied in parallel.
Both methods independently act to reduce the specified zones surrounding vent pipes in AGIs.
Additional evidence gaps around hydrogen/Natural Gas blends up to 20% will be examined by replicating the phase 2 workshop tests for blends. During the project additional opportunities will be sought to collaborate and share knowledge with any third-party studies of large-scale gas releases.
Biomethane HP storage injection
To investigate the potential to use high pressure storage assets to directly inject biomethane.
Network Blending Blueprint
The Technical Blueprint Project forms a critical enabling phase of Cadent’s Hydrogen Blending Implementation Programme. Its purpose is to translate existing high level hydrogen blending evidence into a detailed network specific asset level and operationally deliverable blueprint that defines what is required for the gas network to safely and compliantly accommodate hydrogen blends of up to 20% by volume once regulatory approval is granted.
While previous industry projects have established that hydrogen blending is feasible in principle many technical operational and cost decisions remain at an asset process system and people level. These gaps currently prevent informed investment decisions and cannot be addressed through business‑as‑usual activity. This project addresses that gap by undertaking structured technical validation impact refinement and mitigation definition across Cadent’s network with a particular focus on the North West and East Midlands as pilot regions.
The project will coordinate specialist technical suppliers to validate prior hydrogen impact assessments against the most up‑to‑date safety evidence identify and close remaining evidence gaps and determine clear final mitigation positions for all affected assets and operational activities. Outputs will be consolidated into a single integrated technical blueprint providing a sequenced and costed set of actions required to achieve “blend readiness”. Areas confirmed as having no impact will also be explicitly documented to avoid unnecessary future intervention and cost.
The Technical Blueprint will provide Cadent and wider GB networks with a robust evidence‑based foundation to support future regulatory submissions funding reopeners and implementation planning. Learning generated will be transferable across gas distribution networks supporting a coordinated cost‑effective and safe transition toward hydrogen blending while reducing long‑term consumer risk and avoiding premature or inefficient investment.
Air Ingress in a Live Environment
Using Cartrefi Hydrogen Home as a test case this project will enable remote monitoring of air ingress phenomena within the home. The system will be used to characterise the current behaviour of the house and to investigate generic air ingress dynamics in a representative domestic hydrogen installation.
Suitability of 17-4 PH Stainless Steel Gas Components
The transition from natural gas to hydrogen introduces new material challenges within the context of the GB gas network. One critical concern is hydrogen embrittlement particularly in 17-4 Precipitation Hardened (PH) Stainless Steel commonly used in axial flow regulators and other key gas network components like valve stems. Hydrogen embrittlement can significantly reduce ductility fatigue life and fracture toughness potentially leading to component failure. While research exists much of it focuses on extreme conditions (e.g. high pressures and rapid temperature cycling) that do not reflect typical operational environments in the GB gas network.
This project will look to combine industry knowledge literature review and empirical testing to address these outstanding challenges.
Standardising Grid Entry Unit
The UK’s biomethane sector faces challenges due to the diverse and non-standardized grid entry requirements across different Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs). This variability leads to increased costs complexity and lead times for biomethane projects hindering the industry’s growth and efficiency.
Sustainable Vehicle Transport
The Sustainable Vehicle Transport (SVT) feasibility study project will undertake a green gas refuelling study specific to SGN’s network areas in Scotland and Southern incorporating biomethane in the form of bio-CNG and the potential for a future hydrogen option. Along with heat transport is a key sector to decarbonise on the journey to net zero. Battery electric vehicles are well suited to small vehicles but for heavy goods vehicles (HGV) and larger commercial vehicles (LCV) like the type that make up the majority of SGN’s operational fleet this may not be the most appropriate technology given the range and on-board power requirements.
Understanding Consumer Behaviours for a Just Energy Transition
This project will deliver independent evidence‑based research on consumer behavioural insights relating to domestic heat sources during the energy system transition. It comprises four work packages (WP0–WP4) that build on one another to create tangible outputs for WWU and other Network Licensees: desk research and gap analysis (WP1) SME engagement and sentiment analysis (WP2) consumer research including a 4000‑respondent survey user‑journey mapping and CIVS insights (WP3) and integration of insights through decision trees synthetic population modelling and cost‑benefit analysis (WP4).
B-linepack+
Linepack flexibility is key for Gas Transmission to provide system resilience by management of swings within operational limits. In a hydrogen world we know our energy content per km of linepack will decrease by up to 76%. Therefore embedded resilience systems in the form of lined rock shafts are being investigated to supplement loss in linepack capability. We envision systems if implemented for hydrogen transmission to act similar to how now decommissioned natural gas holders were utilised for operational flexibility pressure regulation supply/demand mismatch management load balancing emergency backup and production buffering.
LISTEN – Local Insights Supporting Transparent Energy Networks
The LISTEN (Local Insights Supporting Transparent Energy Networks) project aims to create a scalable data-led approach to understanding and building social consent for the energy transition. LISTEN integrates AI-driven tools place-based engagement and co-designed dashboards to help energy networks plan with communities not just for them.
The platform brings together four core elements:
- Regional Dashboards: Visualising insights by geography topic and demographics to inform planning and engagement strategies.
- Multi-Source Data Capture: Synthesising local news social media planning documents and community events for a holistic view of local feeling.
- Voice-Enabled Surveys: Capturing authentic community sentiment in people’s own words with AI sentiment analysis assessing tone confidence and emotion.
- Tailored Recommendations: Providing SGN and partners with actionable insights and engagement strategies aligned with Ofgem’s fairness and consumer-centric priorities.
Hydrogen Environment Testing of Girth Welds Phase 2 - Constant Load Testing
Previous testing carried out under NIA has outstanding gaps that require further testing to close. Completing the additional testing will confirm actual fracture toughness values to be used and the corresponding J value from the crack growth resistance curve. The project outputs are required and will be used to progress design specification and procurement processes for hydrogen major projects. The results can also be applied for repurposing assessments.
Excess Flow Valve (EFV) Durability
This project will help to inform UK Gas Distribution Network Operators (GDNOs) and wider industry on the long-term suitability of existing Excess Flow Valve (EFV) designs in a future where hydrogen is being distributed in network pipelines. A risk to normal EFV functionality exists in the event that an ignition occurs within the downstream gas installation pipework and this project will help to understand the effectiveness of existing EFV designs to manage this risk identifying any necessary modifications to existing EFV designs where appropriate.
CO2 Capture and Methanation Feasibility Study
CO₂ utilisation in the UK remains technically and commercially uncertain. Dispersed emitters and biogenic sources are largely excluded from industrial CCUS clusters leaving a gap in scalable cost-effective carbon management solutions. This project will conduct a Desktop feasibility study covering SGN’s operational regions and local emitters within ~30 mile radius of candidate biomethane sites.
- Stakeholder and vendor engagement with technology providers
- Technical and economic modelling of capture and utilisation systems including mass and energy balances CAPEX/OPEX estimates and sensitivity analysis on CO₂ and hydrogen pricing.
- Local market assessment to identify potential CO₂ emitters and offtakes within 30 miles of candidate biomethane or EfW sites.
Development roadmap defining next steps funding opportunities and conditions required to progress to demonstration phase.
Hydrogen Condition and Test Effects (HCATE)
The Hydrogen Condition and Test Effect (HCATE) project will investigate the effect of moisture on fatigue crack growth rate (FCGR) and the influence of loading rate on fracture toughness of API 5L X52 pipeline steel in hydrogen environments. The project will generate experimental data to improve understanding of how environmental conditions influence crack propagation behaviour and fracture resistance in pipeline steels.
Laboratory-scale testing will be conducted on representative pipeline material in air and pressurised gaseous hydrogen environments including hydrogen saturated with water and hydrogen containing trace oxygen. These conditions are intended to simulate environmental conditions that may be present within pipeline systems.
Complementary fracture toughness testing will also be conducted at different loading rates to evaluate the influence of loading conditions on fracture resistance. The results will support the development of improved pipeline integrity assessments and contribute to the evidence base required for the safe repurposing of the UK Local Transmission System (LTS) for hydrogen transport.
Non-Data Centres Large Demand Mapping
New high energy demand sites in the UK can face grid connection delays of over 10 years due to overloaded electricity networks which are struggling to keep up with growing demand. Gas networks could help bridge this gap by supplying gas-to-power solutions to support critical areas sooner. Knowing where and when demand will arise will help gas networks target investment support electricity networks in offering alternatives and allow energy users faster access to power. In this way gas networks can play a key role in getting large energy users the power they need when they need it.
TD2 Hydrogen Update
This project will deliver the first comprehensive and evidence‑based update to IGEM/TD/2 to enable its safe and consistent application to 100% hydrogen and hydrogen‑blend transmission pipelines. Current TD/2 methodologies reflect only natural gas behaviour leaving critical gaps in failure frequencies consequence modelling harm criteria and risk‑reduction approaches for hydrogen. Through a structured programme of technical analysis modelling validation against large‑scale hydrogen test data and extensive stakeholder engagement the project will develop hydrogen‑specific failure frequency tables consequence and overpressure models harm thresholds and guidance on appropriate risk‑reduction measures. These will be consolidated into a publication‑ready TD/2 Hydrogen Update Technical Suite and IGEM drafting instructions ensuring regulatory alignment and industry consensus. The outcome will provide a unified defensible framework that accelerates hydrogen network projects supports the UK’s energy transition and strengthens safety assurance across the gas sector.
BioFlex
This project constitutes a focused feasibility assessment of local biomethane market models with the objective of determining how decentralised commercial arrangements can enable increased participation from small-scale and community anaerobic digestion (AD) producers. The study will examine commercial structures regulatory considerations and stakeholder readiness associated with enabling localised trading of green gas through existing distribution networks. It will assess the interaction between market design connection approaches and consumer engagement to identify viable pathways for implementation and scale-up.
Hydrogen Rollout Assessment
This project will help WWU to understand considerations for 100% Hydrogen Rollout at a town scale to inform future activity on preparation for repurposing. Areas will be chosen which are representative of different networks housing stock and demographics which will require different approaches and engagement.
GVA and macro-economic impact of biomethane
The consultant will deliver a report demonstrating the Gross Value Added (GVA) benefits of biomethane and jobs created and/or maintained from greater biomethane generation across upstream midstream and downstream and the particular benefit provided to GB’s rural communities.
This will be a build on the Economics of Biomethane project conducted by Baringa for the Taskforce and would be expected to leverage analyses and modelling from that project as required.
This analysis is to form the basis of a compelling report making the case for greater biomethane production and injection into the GB gas networks. This report to include recommendations for the target audience which includes Government Treasury DESNZ DEFRA Local authorities etc.
This is a project being delivered in collaboration with the Green Gas Taskforce.
Net Zero Multi-Vector Assessment
This project will help Cadent to understand considerations for a Net Zero Multi-Vector at a town scale to inform future activity on preparation for repurposing. An area will be chosen which is representative of different networks housing stock and demographics which will require different approaches and engagement.
Finding the Hidden Vulnerable Stage 2
Following on from Stage 1 of the project which assessed if a predictive model could be used to find hidden vulnerability the next stage of the project is focused on identifying customers in vulnerable situations whose heat comes from Cadent delivered gas that are missing out on the protections that the Priority Service Register (PSR) brings because they are “hidden” behind a non-domestic supply contract and may not be immediately visible through existing data sets and ways of working. The project aims to proactively identify and support hidden customers in vulnerable situations within Cadent’s network by developing a data-driven model that integrates existing datasets from different sources ensuring that they receive the support that they need in the event of an interruption to supply.
Maximising the use of a decommissioned network
This project constitutes a research study exploring innovative opportunities to repurpose decommissioned gas pipelines and associated assets to support future energy systems and critical infrastructure needs.
By exploring diverse repurposing options beyond hydrogen and carbon dioxide it is hoped that it will be possible to identify potential growth areas for gas pipeline assets that in some areas may otherwise become stranded. The study will include a review of economic viability technical feasibility and regulatory considerations for any identified options.
Green Gas Access
Green Gas Access will define tools to improve how green gas is managed across UK distribution networks supporting net-zero goals. With fossil fuels still expected to dominate the energy mix by 2050 we must ensure resilient supply and avoid capacity loss as we integrate decentralised sources like biomethane. The solution is to enable real-time network operation including dynamic supply modelling scenario planning and technology deployment. Key outcomes include: improved green gas injection control better asset use onboarding new suppliers efficiently and supporting the transition to low-carbon systems through coordinated green gas storage and power-to-gas operation.
Fixed Thermal Probe/Proxy Flow Meter
We’re developing a low-cost easy-to-install solution to measure gas flow at regulator stations. The goal is to keep the equipment as simple and non-intrusive as possible.
To measure the flow we’ll use two methods:
- One method checks how open the regulator is and the pressure difference across it to estimate the flow.
- The other uses a small sensor that creates a slight temperature change at the outlet which also helps estimate the flow.
By combining these two methods with the regulator’s technical details we aim to measure the flow with an accuracy of about ±10%.
RTN modelling- Bio Methane
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.
Digital Inclusion in Rural & Vulnerable Communities Phase 1
Digital exclusion remains a significant and persistent challenge across the UK with approximately 10 million people unable to access online services due to a lack of internet connectivity digital skills or confidence. In rural and remote communities this challenge is compounded by poor infrastructure and geographic isolation. For households already identified as vulnerable the inability to receive timely communications from energy networks can have serious consequences.
Energy networks currently rely on a standard set of channels to communicate critical information such as planned outages safety alerts and emergency notifications. Letters go unread door-knocking is costly and slow SMS messages are widely distrusted and digital channels by definition exclude the very households that need the most support. No single channel reliably reaches digitally excluded consumers at speed. This gap represents both a safeguarding risk for customers and a significant compliance and reputational challenge for networks operating under Ofgem’s consumer vulnerability obligations.
This project proposes a fundamentally new approach: the Message Beacon is a low-cost physical internet-free device distributed to households to alert customers that an important energy network message is available to be read. The notification signal is received via Bluetooth or NFC from a nearby mobile asset (such as a van field engineer or bin lorry) and is represented on the Message Beacon using a flashing LED. The customer taps the Message Beacon with an NFC-enabled smart device to display the energy network message. No internet connection is required in the home and no digital literacy is assumed. The Message Beacon brings the message to the person rather than expecting the person to come to the channel.
This project aims to design and validate the Message Beacon concept establishing the foundational design user research and hardware groundwork that will enable a full real-world pilot in Phase 2.
Phase 1 will deliver four discrete tangible outputs each meaningful in its own right and each a direct input into the Phase 2 build:
- Front-of-House Initial Design: User journey maps covering how different household types will encounter and use the Beacon; initial design of the physical form factor LED notification NFC tap-to-read interaction and message display; first-round prototype tested with participants; all design decisions documented with rationale grounded in user research.
- Back-of-House Initial Design: Research with network comms teams on message types triggers and operational workflow; user journey maps for network staff; initial interface designs for message creation household management and read-receipt reporting; analytics framework for Phase 2 evaluation.
- Technical End-to-End Flow: Full system architecture from message creation through transmission to NFC tap and display in the home; hardware and software brief with security model; assessment of NFC BLE and battery architecture; basis for the Phase 2 development brief.
- Prototype Plan and Experimental Builds: Hardware technical diagrams; sourced components; initial experimental Beacon devices demonstrating the core NFC BLE and LED interaction; manufacturing and cost assessment for Phase 2 production run of 30–50 units.
Technology Readiness Level (TRL)
- Start TRL: 2 (Technology concept formulated)The Message Beacon has been identified through prior research as the strongest candidate solution but exists only as a concept. No integrated system design user-tested interface or functioning hardware has been produced.
- End TRL: 4 (Technology validated in laboratory environment)By the end of Phase 1 the core system architecture will have been designed and validated experimental Beacon hardware will have been built and tested and both the front-of-house and back-of-house interfaces will have been prototyped and tested with real users in controlled settings.
PE Service Pipe Disconnection
The PE Service Pipe disconnection development project aims to produce a product and technique which can safely successfully and efficiently disconnect PE Service Pipes from an external Emergency Control Valve (ECV) following meter removal. This solution aims to prevent the inconvenience risks and additional costs associated with traditional excavation methods.