Biogas grid worries fuel consultation
19 May 2015
Distribution trade body Energy Networks Association (ENA) has issued a consultation to gather industry views on current regulations for low-flow biomethane sites injecting into the gas network.
ENA and members of the Biomethane Campaign Working Group claim current regulations place a disproportionate burden on low-flow biomethane connections and that the cost and complexity of the regime for these producers acts as a barrier to entry.
“The injection of green gas, such as biomethane, into the network can play an important role in meeting the significant challenge of decarbonising UK heat, cooking and transport,” said ENA chief executive David Smith.
“Simplification of the current regulatory regime for low-flow biomethane producers can contribute to continued growth in this area and support the Government’s policy targets for renewable heat and low carbon energy, while ensuring there is no detriment to the existing levels of consumer protection.”
ENA’s consultation claims the interest of both existing and future users of the network could be protected through agreements between Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs) and the biomethane producers, as set out in the legally binding Network Entry Agreements (NEAs) and further industry agreement mechanisms.
Once the views on these proposals have been gathered from gas shippers, suppliers, consumer groups and biomethane developers/producers, the findings will help Ofgem make an independent decision in relation to this issue.
