Britain’s gas networks have published innovation strategies for the next two years, outlining how they intend to “support an equitable transition to a low carbon energy system with resilience at its heart”.
The strategy has been developed with the input from more than 130 stakeholders across industry, government and academia, and covers the first two years of the RIIO-3 price control period, spanning 2026 – 2028.
There are five core themes, including:
- Reducing environmental footprint: Accelerating efforts to cut emissions, tackle gas leakage and ramp up low-carbon technologies.
- Digital by default: Embedding advanced data, artificial intelligence and digital tools such as digital twins to improve decision-making, efficiency and network resilience.
- Whole system pathways: Strengthening coordination across gas, electricity and emerging energy systems to support integrated, long-term planning.
- Equitable energy for everyone: Ensuring vulnerable customers are protected and supported throughout the energy transition.
- Flexible and seamless connections: Enabling the growth of green gases such as biomethane and hydrogen.
The strategy outlines the principles that will “enable networks to meet the twin challenges of accelerating decarbonisation and strengthening energy security, flexibility and resilience”, they said.
It also highlights the importance of collaboration across the energy sector, with partnership working between network regulators, technology providers and other infrastructure operators that are essential to accelerate innovation and minimise duplication.
Nolan Robertson, Senior Manager at Future Energy Networks, said:
“During a period of profound change for Britain’s energy system, this strategy sets out a clear and coordinated plan for how gas networks will harness cutting-edge innovation over the next couple of years.
“By focusing on five key innovation themes – from reducing emissions and embracing digitalisation to supporting vulnerable customers – we show how innovation can help keep homes warm, lights on, and industry powered, all while accelerating the transition to a decarbonised future.”
Image of strategy courtesy of the networks
