Biomethane network planning consultation

Views sought from prospective biomethane producers and existing biogas producers in Northern Ireland.

Northern Ireland’s Gas Network Operators (GNOs) have jointly launched a collaborative request for information for potential biomethane producers and potential waste feedstock suppliers.

The GNOs in NI are:

• Mutual Energy
• GNI (UK)
• Phoenix Energy
• firmus energy
• Evolve

They are seeking information from potential biomethane producers to inform network planning and allow operators to prepare for the introduction of biomethane into the NI gas network. This is aimed at decarbonisation and the longer-term transition to a net zero carbon gas network.

Responses are invited from both prospective biomethane producers and current biogas producers who may consider upgrading and repurposing their processes to facilitate biomethane production and gas grid injection. Anyone who is keen to supply waste feedstock to anaerobic digestors is also encouraged to send their views.

Not every area of the NI gas network can easily accommodate large volumes of injected biomethane. The information gathered through this process will allow for the planning and development of the gas network to accommodate proposed biomethane volumes and deliver on the region’s green gas potential. This will enable NI gas consumers access to green energy, and ultimately support the decarbonisation of NI’s energy supply. Results will also be used by the NI GNO’s to inform development of biomethane policy and the local regulatory framework.

Find out more about the consultation and how to respond.

First published 8 May 2024