Projects
Enhancement of the anaerobic digestion process for biomethane production
The UK Government recognised that domestic biomethane production can play a significant role in decarbonising energy supplies. However biomethane production plants face technical and operational challenges. Currently the content of biomethane within biogas produced from the anaerobic digestion (AD) process is often only around 50%. This partial conversion results in lower yields for AD operators and an increase in costly gas scrubbing requirements. The increased presence of impurity gases also increases requirement for propanation to increase the calorific value high in both cost and carbon footprint.
This project seeks to address these challenges through the injection of green hydrogen into the AD process in specific quantities and at specific times to achieve greater conversion of carbon dioxide to biomethane within the acetogenesis stage of the AD process thereby increasing the yield whilst reducing the need for gas scrubbing and propanation.
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.
Decentralised System Resilience (Phase 2)
This project constitutes a research study investigating the opportunities for gas network infrastructure to provide resilience solutions.
Organisations are becoming more reliant on electricity just as the grid decentralises driving a growing need for stronger resilience against power outages. High profile outages such as those seen around Heathrow Airport and across Spain and Portugal in 2025 have brought the need for additional resilience solutions sharply into focus.
By engaging end users DNOs and other stakeholders this programme will quantify the UK’s resilience challenge build the evidence base and determine whether there are opportunities for gas to play an additional role in providing resilience.
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.
Futures Close Heat Programme (FC Heat)
To reach our national net zero targets by 2050 we need to decarbonise approximately 25 million homes in England. Domestic heating accounts for approximately 14% of the UKs entire emissions and significant investment is required to improve the energy efficiency of our housing stock. In addition there are major challenges associated with domestic decarbonisation:
- England has the most diverse housing stock in the UK. with 35% built before the end of WWII.
- Sixty-four percent are owner-occupied and these homeowners need to have a good cost effective and efficient experience of home and heating upgrade as we move towards zero carbon homes.
- Implementing heating upgrades to this ageing housing stock requires a ‘whole house’ approach therefore consideration must be given to the building fabric and heating system.
Retrofitting existing homes with electric heating systems or deployment of green hydrogen boilers offer potential solutions however the intricacies of deployment and installation are complex further research and development is required to learn more about installation performance of various heating options. Doing so will inform future domestic decarbonisation strategies.
Digestate Management
This project constitutes a UK-wide strategic assessment of digestate production arising from projected biomethane growth including quantification of volumes in 2030 2040 and 2050 and analysis of nutrient composition (nitrogen phosphorus and potassium). Sustainable land-spreading capacity will be evaluated under current regulatory constraints with regional nutrient imbalances mapped. Export potential and post-processing technologies will be assessed to determine infrastructure needs and optimal management pathways. Findings will inform how digestate management can best support sustainable biomethane growth.
Augmented Reality Futures Close
Augmented Reality (AR) technology will be used at Futures Close to convey and inform various audiences including vulnerable consumers about various property archetypes their construction heat loss and the type of retrofit solutions (heating systems controls fabric improvements) available to improve the level of domestic energy efficiency. AR will be used to inform educate and engage audiences on-site at Futures Close as well as off-site at conferences and meetings avoiding the need to facilitate multiple visits on site. Live data feeds will also be visualised illustrating room-by-room temperature humidity as well as other metrics providing an engaging interactive and informative asset for Futures Close.
Hydrogen Transition Pathways for Industrial Clusters
Hydrogen Transition Pathways for Industrial Clusters (HTPIC) is a six-month evidence led research and decision support project developed in response to the EIC’s call for innovation on the energy transition of industrial clusters. The project addresses the challenge of determining where how and under what conditions hydrogen should play a role in decarbonising industrial clusters and surrounding communities alongside credible alternative pathways.
Across the GB energy system existing hydrogen programmes and studies are typically undertaken on a cluster-by-cluster or project-specific basis using differing assumptions scenarios and decision criteria. This makes it difficult for networks and policymakers to compare options consistently understand system level trade-offs or prioritise investment in a transparent and auditable way. The absence of a common decision framework increases the risk of misaligned investment stranded assets and inconsistent outcomes across regions.
HTPIC aims to close this gap by providing NGN Future Energy Networks (FEN) and Xoserve with a structured repeatable decision framework that enables consistent evidence-based comparison of hydrogen pathways across industrial clusters. The project integrates technical economic social and deliverability considerations within a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) framework allowing complex evidence to be translated into clear and practical insights rather than standalone studies or narrative recommendations.
The project will be delivered in three stages:
- Stage 1 establishes a robust evidence baseline including a comprehensive literature and evidence review documented assumptions register and confirmation of scope and clusters.
- Stage 2 generates robust comparable evidence across clusters through four analytical workstreams covering hydrogen supply and demand gas coexistence and system configuration conversion practicality and costs and just-transition considerations while developing and calibrating the MCDM framework with stakeholders.
- Stage 3 applies the agreed framework to undertake structured optioneering and scenario analysis resulting in prioritised pathways cluster-specific conversion playbooks and decision-ready outputs.
Key outputs include:
- a literature and evidence review with a transparent assumption register;
- a defensible options-rationalisation matrix and MCDM framework;
- a comprehensive report addressing the four research questions set out in the EIC brief supported by an executive summary and cluster-specific annexes;
- cluster-level conversion playbooks translating analysis into practical location-specific insights;
- pathway roadmaps to 2050; and
- a final dissemination pack to support knowledge sharing across NGN FEN Xoserve and Ofgem audiences .
HTPIC will support improved strategic planning for hydrogen and alternative decarbonisation pathways reduce the risk of misaligned investment and stranded assets through structured prioritisation and strengthen alignment between industrial cluster ambitions and network development plans. By providing a transparent and consistent decision framework the project enables clearer sequencing of pathways more robust comparison of hydrogen and alternative options and improved confidence in future investment appraisal.
The project will also enhance understanding of affordability workforce implications and wider community impacts ensuring that pathway selection considers both technical feasibility and socio-economic factors. Through its systematic assessment of coexistence conversion practicality and deliverability HTPIC supports safer and more coordinated progression into downstream engineering and delivery programmes.
HTPIC will generate new system-level learning on hydrogen coexistence conversion practicality and community impacts presented through a structured scenario-based and weighted decision framework that enables transparent comparison across industrial clusters. This learning will strengthen evidence-based decision making across networks and provide a clearer foundation for future programme development regulatory engagement and investment planning.
Learning will be disseminated through the dissemination event final report executive summary and EIC knowledge-sharing channels supporting wider GB network benefit.
The project commences at TRL 2 where the structured assessment methodology and decision framework are defined conceptually. Over the course of delivery the framework will be applied across multiple industrial clusters tested against real-world scenarios and stakeholder calibration and analytically validated through structured optioneering.
By project close the solution will have progressed to TRL 3 with the methodology demonstrated and validated in a decision-support context delivering robust prioritisation and clearly articulated pathways.
The project does not include detailed engineering design trials or implementation. Early-stage engineering validation or delivery programmes across industrial clusters are already underway or in development through separate governance funding and procurement routes. HTPIC is designed to strengthen and rationalise those activities by providing a structured evidence base and decision framework to support confident downstream investment and engineering decisions.
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)
Leveraging AI to drive the evolution of standards to optimise and enhance the safe operation of energy networks.
Leveraging AI to drive the evolution of standards to optimise and enhance the safe operation of energy networks by automating the extraction of key technical evidence from an expanse of R&D documents for the purpose of engineering policymaking.
Resilient Energy Futures for NHS
This project delivers an evidence-based assessment of resilient energy futures for NHS as the health service transitions toward its Net Zero target. The work combines national-level analysis with site-specific audits to develop replicable methodology for assessing healthcare estates provide NHS Boards and SGN with clear prioritised roadmaps for maintaining clinical resilience while reducing carbon emissions.
Scottish NHS sites are used as a case studies as it operates 14 territorial Health Boards with complex estates that currently depend on gas for heating hot water and essential clinical services. The project addresses a critical planning challenge faced by all gas networks: healthcare estates currently depend on gas for heating hot water and essential clinical services as electrification and alternative heating solutions are deployed unevenly there is significant uncertainty around how quickly gas demand will decline where it will remain critical and how network resilience can be maintained during the transition. Working with Energy Systems Catapult Jacobs and Aiming for Zero the project will deliver GIS mapping of priority sites site-level audits techno-economic modelling and Board-specific implementation roadmaps providing SGN NHS Scotland and other networks with the evidence base required for coordinated cost-effective decarbonisation planning.
HyNTS Corrosion
The National Transmission System (NTS) pipelines employ a number of external corrosion barrier coatings primarily coal tar enamel and fusion bonded epoxy (FBE). Cathodic protection is deployed on the network to mitigate for coating failure. Additionally there are a range of pipeline steels that are used in both above ground buried pipework both stainless and carbon steels of various grades.
Following the previous NIA project: Research the Impact of Hydrogen on CP & Degradation of Coatings (NIA NGGT0191) the HSE have recommended follow-on testing to fully explore the impact of hydrogen permeation through steel pipelines on corrosion protection systems.
Additionally the impact of hydrogen on all credible pipeline corrosion mechanisms is to be considered to understand whether current assumptions with regards corrosion rates are valid for hydrogen pipelines.
Variable Blends Operational
National Gas Transmission are working to decarbonise the gas grid by transporting hydrogen rather than natural gas. Blending hydrogen with natural gas provides a stepping stone towards this goal fostering the hydrogen economy whilst also benefiting from up to 7% carbon savings from a respective 20% hydrogen blend.
The UK government supports blending up to 20% hydrogen by volume into the gas distribution networks and there are ongoing trials and assessments into proving the safety and technical feasibility of hydrogen blending across all networks and pressure tiers in the UK. It is anticipated that initially a low percentage hydrogen blend will be accepted onto the National Transmission System with this potentially increasing up to 20% hydrogen blends being accepted. This is largely due to few modifications being required to accommodate low hydrogen blend percentages on the NTS.
Additionally NTS level hydrogen blending is likely to develop in phases of hydrogen blend percentage entering the network due to the hydrogen supply in the UK developing gradually over time. 2% hydrogen on the NTS equates to approximately 5TWh of hydrogen production therefore increasing this percentage will require time.
Variability in the gas blends of the network is likely due to the production of hydrogen gradually increasing over time and injection of that hydrogen being geographically spread across the network. There is also potential that hydrogen supply can vary based on factors such as production methods direct demand off takers and availability. Therefore it is important to understand the implications of blended hydrogen and natural gas at variable levels between 0-5% hydrogen and 0-20% hydrogen blend.
Hydrogen blend variability encompasses a range of factors that need to be carefully managed to ensure a successful transition to a hydrogen-integrated energy system. Understanding the impact to stakeholders such as current customers and interconnecting countries will be crucial to successfully transitioning to a blended network and identifying ways to mitigate any risks and make sure National Gas are aligned to support our stakeholders needs where possible. There is also a need to evidence the impacts and any associated changes to risks from a whole system management perspective and to research the impact of blend variability on compressor train machinery assets.
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.
Hydrogen AGI Pipework Integrity Monitoring Phase 2
This project proposes a structured approach to assess the integrity of AGI pipework for hydrogen service. It includes development of a screening tool based on representative AGI archetypes execution of ECAs to define flaw tolerances and inspection intervals and evaluation of NDT capabilities with respect to desired AGI performances. The project also reviews integrity management software to support increased digitalisation and monitors emerging technologies for hydrogen-related NDT developments.
Pipeline Installation Techniques for Net Zero
This RIIO-2 NIA project is a desktop research study designed to support the transition of the National Transmission System to hydrogen and carbon dioxide. It evaluates construction commissioning procurement and connection challenges and identifies scalable standardisable solutions to support future Net Zero pipeline delivery.
Net Zero Safety & Ignition Risk
National Gas Transmission (NGT) owns and operates the UK’s extensive National Transmission System (NTS) which spans over 7600 kilometres and plays a vital role in delivering energy security and supporting decarbonisation initiatives. NGT has made a commitment to develop plans to transition some of the NTS to blended hydrogen operation as part of the Government’s Net Zero targets. A programme called Project Union is being developed to spearhead the NTS conversion strategy as part of the decarbonisation effort. This will further aid the net-zero target by eliminating emissions generated from managing and operating the transmission system. The Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs) and NGT have been making strides in the last decade through research physical testing etc to qualify hydrogen as a fuel within the NTS.
Hydrogen is a promising alternative fuel due to its potential to significantly reduce greenhouse emissions; however its properties present unique safety challenges. It has a much lower ignition energy (0.016mJ) when compared to Natural Gas making it more susceptible to ignition from a variety of sources along with much more devastating effects if ignition occurs.
An area of consideration for safe hydrogen operation is the ignition risk of hydrogen. This risk will span daily operations maintenance tasks compression and transport etc. Ignition risk needs to be meticulously investigated to ensure National Gas are aware of all the possible ignition mechanisms sources likelihood safeguards and mitigations etc. to ensure safe utilisation of hydrogen on the network.
This work will provide a comprehensive understanding of hydrogen ignition risks on the network with safeguards and mitigations to bring the risk of ignition into the ‘Tolerable if ALARP’ or ‘Broadly Acceptable’ levels.
TD2 Hydrogen Update
External DNV - £247365
External IGEM - £10000
Internal - £64635
£322000
Novel Unified Viewer for NGT Network Performance Twin
As part of the National Gas Network Performance Twin program this project is designed to demonstrate a scalable digital twin platform focused on improving infrastructure resilience supporting hydrogen integration and addressing climate adaptation across the National Transmission System (NTS). This initiative integrates three strategic components: Collaborative Visual Data Twin (CVDT) – a 3D BIM-based digital twin platform that visualises and monitors asset performance in real time. HyNTS Dataset Automation – a structured automated geodatabase that supports hydrogen readiness assessments and asset integrity modelling. Flood Twin – a predictive flood simulation model that enables scenario-based risk analysis and resilience planning for Above Ground Installations (AGIs).
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.