We’ve been awarded funding for two exciting new projects under the Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF), both entering the Discovery Phase. These projects will explore new improved ways of managing green gas, and bridge the gap for high-demand energy sites facing decade long delays connecting to the electricity grid.
Project 1: Green Gas Access
Green Gas Access will develop new improved ways to manage and integrate green gas across all of the UK’s gas networks. As fossil fuels remain part of the energy mix for years to come, it’s important to keep supplies reliable and resilient while adding cleaner decentralised sources like biomethane. This project will use new technology to run the network more smoothly and respond quickly to changes by using dynamic supply modelling and scenario planning in real time.
Innovation Analyst Steven Steel said:
“Green Gas Access is about making the network work in real time, improving how we control green gas injections, use our assets more efficiently, and bring new suppliers on board smoothly. By developing smarter tools and planning systems, we can better manage supply and demand as it happens, support the shift to low-carbon energy, and ensure our networks stay resilient and responsive.”
Project 2: Grid Connection Plan B – for Large Energy Users
As demand for electricity surges, new high energy demand sites across the UK are facing grid connection delays of up to a decade. This project will explore how gas networks can bridge the energy gap by delivering gas-to-power solutions that enable faster access to energy, while incorporating green gases or carbon capture to reduce environmental impact. By identifying where and when new demand will arise, we aim to target investment, support electricity networks with practical alternatives, and help energy users keep pace with growth.
Innovation Project Manager Jo Tunney said:
“The challenge of being able to meet the energy demands of the UK’s growing data centre sector is well publicised. What is less well understood is the extent of grid connection delays faced by other sites with large energy demands.
“This is a chance for us explore how we as a gas network can unlock new opportunities for collaboration and deliver tangible benefits to both energy users and the economy.”
Together, these projects demonstrate our drive to tackle real-world energy challenges with practical innovation. By exploring new ways to manage green gas and support high-demand energy users, we’re helping shape a smarter, more resilient energy system that works for everyone. We’ll share updates as both projects progress.
The Strategic Innovation Fund, delivered by Ofgem in partnership with Innovate UK, supports transformative ideas that help gas and electricity networks evolve for a low-carbon future, with up to £450 million expected to be invested by 2028.
This project will be funded through the Strategic Innovation Fund, an Ofgem programme managed in partnership with Innovate UK.
