We’re celebrating a standout performance for SGN at this year’s prestigious Gas Industry Awards, which recognise the very best people, projects and innovations across the sector.
SGN teams secured top honours in two of the most sought-after categories, alongside a third award for innovation in supporting the transition to net zero, an achievement shared with a number of industry partners.
Adding to the occasion, our Chief Operating Officer, Darren Elsom, was on hand to congratulate winners and nominees. Darren’s presence made it especially significant, as he steps into the role of President of the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) this year - marking a career journey from apprentice to senior industry leader.
Judges praised this year’s entries as being of an exceptionally high standard, highlighting the strength of innovation, collaboration and commitment across the gas industry.
Our 2026 winners
Project of the Year: LTS Futures
This pioneering, flagship programme was crowned Project of the Year, recognising its role at the forefront of hydrogen innovation.
It has successfully demonstrated, through a live trial, the potential for our Local Transmission System (LTS) to transport hydrogen, an important step towards decarbonising the gas network.
Judges described the project as a “standout”, noting it delivered a UK-first: repurposing an existing local transmission pipeline to carry 100% hydrogen. The project provides a vital blueprint for how gas networks can transition at scale to support a low-carbon future.
The award was collected by members of the LTS Futures team, including Nancy Thomson, Steve Howells, Sophie Bladon and Gemma Simpson.
Customer Service Award: Pivoting to the Front Line
We also took home the Customer Service Award 2026 for our transformation programme, ‘Pivoting to the Front Line’.
Judges commended the initiative as a bold and impactful shift in how SGN supports its customers and communities. By strengthening regional operations, investing in customer experience expertise, and enhancing frontline support, particularly for vulnerable customers, the programme has delivered tangible results.
The transformation has seen SGN’s customer satisfaction performance rise from last place nationally to second, while maintaining first place in Scotland, reflecting a sustained commitment to service excellence.
The award was received by Euan Knight, Mandy Doran, Stephanie Jeffries and Dominic Webster.
Net Zero Innovation Award: Intelligent Gas Grid
SGN also celebrated success in the Net Zero Innovation Award category for the Intelligent Gas Grid project, delivered in collaboration with leading industry partners including Utonomy Ltd, Cadent, Northern Gas Networks, Wales & West Utilities, DNV and National Gas.
This cutting-edge initiative has developed an AI-driven, autonomous network management system designed to reduce methane emissions, detect faults earlier and increase biomethane injection capacity.
Judges recognised the project as an outstanding example of collaboration and innovation, demonstrating how digital technology can accelerate progress towards a greener energy system.
Our Innovation Project Manager Ollie Machan (pictured below) was there to collect the award.
Our Innovation Project Manager Ollie Machan at the Gas Industry Awards 2026 after SGN won the Net Zero Innovation Award
These awards highlight the expertise, dedication and collaborative spirit of SGN colleagues and partners across the business.
Congratulations to all our winners and to everyone who contributed to these achievements.
