DNV GL to undertake UK ETI’s gas vector transition pathways development project

DNV GL has secured a contract to manage the UK Energy Technologies Institute’s (ETI) gas vector transition pathways development project.

The energy systems of the UK and Europe are expected to be transformed between now and 2050 following the move towards a low carbon future.

The UK gas networks currently carry over four times as much energy as electricity networks.

The research project will look at four scenarios which include natural gas and the addition of new gases such as hydrogen and bio-synthetic natural gas.

It will provide a better understanding of the implications and the challenges of infrastructure transitions.

DNV GL senior consultant and project manager Len Eastell said: "The work to be undertaken will initially focus on the production and utilisation aspects of each of the scenarios to define the infrastructure requirements."

The Scottish Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Association, University College London and the European Gas Research Group have been selected as subcontractors to help DVV GL undertake the project.

ETI energy storage & distribution project manager Susie Kistruck, who is leading the project, said: "We believe that a range of gases, namely bio-SNG, hydrogen and natural gas, have the potential to play an increasingly significant role in the delivery of energy. Gases such as bio-SNG and hydrogen, could feasibly lower overall effective CO2 emissions whilst continuing to ensure the secure supply of energy to a wide range of end-users.

"Our research has indicated that a broad range of gases could be flexible enough to be used for multiple purposes and this project aims to build a detailed understanding of the issues that will need to be addressed to make this a reality."