Study Group 2: Natural Gas and Renewable Gas

LEADER: Elbert Huijzer, Liander (Netherlands)

SCOPE & PURPOSES

In order to lower the carbon emissions of energy supply systems with lower social cost, we need to make maximum use of the existing energy infrastructure in combination with technologies for various aspects of the overall system to optimize, renovate and modify. Wide-ranging R&D efforts are underway to increase the efficiency, flexibility, safety, reliability and quality of “Integrated Grid”, the electricity and gas systems and networks, to facilitate the transition to a more sustainable energy system.

For gas networks, it is important to demonstrate more intelligent and efficient processes and systems for gas transport and distribution, including the effective integration of renewable energy sources and the use of biogas in the existing networks.

This Study Group made “Renewable gases” report last triennium, illustrating the need for operators to develop smart gas grids and be involved in gas quality monitoring as well as in setting up specifications and standards to make the gas grid as the most energy efficient and environmentally friendly way to transmit renewable gases. In this triennium, based on Country Studies, further analysis on economic and social aspects will be conducted and the group steps into more detail with an objective approach about financing, regulations, local effects on economics or ecology, explaining why renewable gases are a good match with other renewables and with natural gas.