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gasnetworks.ie Network Development Plan 2020
Table of contents
1. Foreword 02 6.5.2. Industrial and commercial sector 42
2. Executive summary 06 6.5.3. Residential sector 43
3. Introduction 12 6.5.4. Transport sector 43
3.1. Licence/regulatory obligations 13 6.6. The demand outlook 45
3.2. Environmental and planning considerations 13 6.6.1. Power generation sector gas demand 45
3.3. Overview of the Gas Networks Ireland system 14 6.6.2. Industrial and commercial sector gas demand 46
4. The future of the gas network 16 6.6.3. Residential sector gas demand 46
4.1. Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) 20 6.6.4. Transport sector gas demand 46
4.2. Renewable gas 20 6.6.5. Total annual gas demand 49
4.3 Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) 21 6.6.6. Peak day gas demand 49
4.4 Hydrogen 22 6.6.7. Role of gas in power generation 50
4.5 Climate Action Plan and the NECP 25 7. Gas supply 54
4.6 The energy policy landscape 27 7.1. Moffat Entry Point 56
5. Historic demand & supply 28 7.2. Corrib gas 56
5.1. COVID-19 demand impact 29 7.3. Kinsale gas 57
5.2. ROI annual primary energy requirement 29 7.4. Renewable gas 57
5.3. Historic annual gas demand 30 7.5. Other supply developments 59
5.4. Historic peak day gas demand 32 8. Gas growth 60
5.5. Ireland’s weather 32 8.1. Residential new connections growth 61
5.6. Wind powered generation 32 8.2. Industrial & commercial sector development 63
5.7. Electricity interconnectors 32 8.2.1 Data centres 63
5.8. Historic gas supply 33 8.2.2 Combined Heat & Power (CHP) 64
6. Gas demand forecasts 34 8.2.3 Other developments 64
6.1. Gas demands 35 8.3. New towns and suburbs policy 65
6.2. Gas demand forecasting 35 8.4. Transport 66
6.3. Gas demand scenarios 36 8.5. Renewable gas 68
6.4. Alignment of NDP scenarios with ENTSOG ten 9. Commercial market arrangements 70
year Network Development Plan 37
9.1. Republic of Ireland gas market 71
6.5. Demand forecast assumptions 38
9.2. European developments 71
6.5.1. Power generation sector 38
Gas Networks Ireland Table of contents 01
9.2.1 Capacity allocation mechanism 71 Data freeze and rounding
In order to complete the detailed analysis and
9.2.2 Balancing 72 modelling required to produce this document,
the demand and supply scenarios were
defined in July 2020, based on the most up to
9.2.3 Tariffs 72 date information at the time. In presenting the
data obtained for publication in the Network
9.2.4 Transparency 72 Development Plan, energy values have been
rounded to one decimal place, and aggregated
9.2.5 European Green Deal 72 growth/contraction rates are expressed as
whole numbers to aid clarity. In certain cases,
10. Gas network capacity 74 rounding may lead to slight variance in sum
totals.
10.1 Capital investment 75
Disclaimer
Gas Networks Ireland has followed accepted
10.1.1 Investment planning 75
industry practice in the collection and analysis
of data available. However, prior to taking
10.1.2 Regulatory capital allowance 75 business decisions, interested parties are
advised to seek separate and independent
10.1.3 Unregulated projects 76 opinion in relation to the matters covered
by the present Network Development Plan
10.1.4 Completed capital programmes 77 and should not rely solely upon data and
information contained therein. Information
10.1.5 Future system capacity 77 in this document does not purport to contain
all the information that a prospective investor
11. CRU commentary 80 or participant in the Republic of Ireland’s gas
market may need.
Copyright notice
All rights reserved. This entire publication
Appendix 1: Historic demand 83 is subject to the laws of copyright. This
publication may not be reproduced or
Appendix 2: Demand forecasts 87 transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic or manual, including photocopying
Appendix 3: Energy efficiency assumptions 91 without the prior written permission of Gas
Networks Ireland.
Appendix 4: Transmission network modelling 92
Glossary 93
02 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
Foreword
1.0
Foreword
Welcome to the 2020 ten-year Network
Development Plan (NDP) published
by Gas Networks Ireland.
This document provides a view of how the gas
network may develop over a ten-year period.
It is based on current supply and demand for
gas, as well as projections for gas consumption
and development of infrastructure. The
document follows a process of engagement and
consultation, both internally and through informal
consultation with key industry stakeholders.
Gas Networks Ireland Foreword 03
As noted in Section 3, the primary in line with pre-COVID-19 levels on
purpose of the NDP is to assess the gas aggregate. The impact of current
network’s capacity based on existing ongoing COVID-19 related economic
and forecast supply and demand in restrictions are incorporated in our gas
order to guarantee the adequacy of demand projections. However, given
the gas transportation system and the ongoing and dynamic nature of the
security of supply. As such, the supply pandemic and associated restrictions,
and demand assumptions which define certain modelling assumptions may
the scenarios presented in this NDP evolve and become replaced relatively
are based on a prudent assessment quickly – in this event, assumptions
of current energy policy in Ireland. will be further calibrated in next year’s
The Best Estimate scenario aligns to NDP as necessary. Throughout 2020,
existing policy measures in place per gas supplies have been available
Ireland’s National Energy and Climate to customers 24/7/365, which is
Plan (NECP) for 2021 – 2030. Gas testament to the underlying resilience
Networks Ireland continue to monitor of the gas network and the long- latter half of the forecast horizon. While
ongoing energy policy development term investment strategies delivered the capacity on the interconnector
and will incorporate additional policy and underpinned by the Network pipelines is more than adequate to
measures into the NDP Best Estimate Development Plan process. meet all gas demand projections over
scenario as they are developed. the 10 year horizon, the potential
Over the 10 year forecast horizon constraint arises at the associated
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, considered in this document, gas compressor station installations.
Gas Networks Ireland have demand in Ireland is anticipated Gas Networks Ireland will keep this
implemented the recommendations to increase, with strong growth of potential constraint under review in
and guidelines from the HSE and Irish 23% projected in the Best Estimate subsequent Network Development
Government to minimise the spread scenario. The main drivers for growth Plans. Measures are being explored to
of the COVID-19 virus, and frequently are within the Power Generation relieve this constraint in the medium
update relevant Government sector, and include a significant and long term.
Departments on our activities. projected growth in electricity demand,
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a the need for additional gas-fired power Natural gas remains the fuel most
notable impact on gas demand in the generation to meet this demand, and required to assist Ireland’s transition
Industrial and Commercial sector, but the anticipated closure of certain non- to a low carbon economy, as it is the
gas demand in the Power Generation gas fired thermal generation plant. optimal complementary energy source
and Residential sectors have not been The ambitious targets assumed for to intermittent renewable energy such
materially impacted and overall gas integration of renewable electricity as wind and solar, given its flexibility.
usage on the network is generally sources result in the displacement of a Natural gas continues its key role in
certain amount of gas demand in this Ireland’s energy system providing
sector, thus off-setting the portion of approximately 30% of the country’s
growth that might otherwise occur. primary energy needs. Approximately
“Gas Networks Ireland Industrial and Commercial sector gas 700,000 households and businesses in
continue to monitor demand is also projected to grow, as is Ireland rely on natural gas for a secure
ongoing energy policy Transport. The Residential sector is the and competitive source of heating. In
only sector showing negative growth 2019, 52% of Ireland’s electricity was
development and will over the 10 years, this trend reflects powered by natural gas1.
incorporate additional the current policy positions that are
policy measures into the built into the modelling assumptions. Gas Networks Ireland welcomes
the submission by the Department
NDP Best Estimate scenario Given the scope for growth, the current of the Environment, Climate and
as they are developed.” technical supply capacity at Moffat Communications (DECC), of Ireland’s
is anticipated to be exceeded in the National Energy and Climate Plan
1 System and Renewable Data Summary Report – EirGrid
04 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
1.0 Foreword
(continued)
for 2021 – 2030 to the European natural gas network can be utilised as
Commission. In recognising that a national vehicle refuelling network, “We are currently developing
Ireland must significantly increase giving the commercial transport sector
its commitments to tackling climate access to a cleaner, cheaper fuel with
a Hydrogen Innovation
disruption, Gas Networks Ireland a similar operational performance to Centre at the Brownsbarn
published “Vision 2050 - A Net Zero diesel. Heavy goods vehicles (HGV) AGI site in Dublin. In addition,
Carbon Gas Network for Ireland” in account for 20% of all energy related
various studies are ongoing
October 2019 which sets out one carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in
potential pathway to reducing Ireland’s the road transport sector, despite internally to assess the
total carbon emissions by one third, by accounting for only 3% of the total unique aspects of the Irish
creating a net zero carbon gas network number of road vehicles. Gas Networks gas network in this context.”
by 2050 through a combination of Ireland is targeting the conversion of
technologies. 24% of heavy goods vehicles and 13%
of buses to Compressed Natural Gas
Renewable gas will provide an (CNG) by 2030. To date, public access Dublin. In addition, various studies are
indigenous and sustainable energy stations at Dublin Port and Cashel have ongoing internally to assess the unique
source, contributing significantly been constructed, commissioned and aspects of the Irish gas network in this
to the reduction of emissions from are fully operational. A further nine context.
Irish agriculture. The introduction publicly accessible sites are contracted
of renewable gas onto the Irish gas with Forecourt Operators, with project Gas Networks Ireland wishes to
network for the first time in 2019 at plans in place to deliver these stations acknowledge the key role the Kinsale
Cush, Co. Kildare marked a significant over the next 2 years. gas fields have played in the supply
milestone for the gas network. The of natural gas to Ireland since 1978,
development of this first renewable Gas Networks Ireland welcomes the marking over four decades of
gas injection facility delivers the European Commission’s ‘Green Deal’, operation. Gas Networks Ireland is
capacity to facilitate enough renewable in particular the ambition for a net fully committed to ensuring that gas
gas for 11,000 homes. As with other zero emissions EU economy by 2050. will continue to flow through its other
renewable energy technologies, As part of the EU Green Deal, the entry points and that security of gas
renewable gas requires state policy Commission announced its strategies supply will not be negatively impacted.
and incentive supports to allow this for Energy System Integration and Gas Networks Ireland will continue
industry to develop and grow to a long- Hydrogen in July 2020. Both strategies to ensure that a resilient, robust and
term competitive fuel. Gas Networks signal a review of the gas legislative safe gas network is maintained to
Ireland also recognises that the framework in 2021 which will deliver “a ensure security of supply to customers
renewable gas industry needs to take competitive decarbonised gas market”. through appropriate and efficient
a series of steps to deliver long-term Gas Networks Ireland will continue investment.
competitiveness and this will require to monitor these developments and
a coordinated approach across all progression on delivering on the EU We would like to acknowledge the
stakeholders. Green Deal and will proactively engage contribution of all stakeholders
with EU and national stakeholders during the process of preparing this
Gas Networks Ireland is developing a in the context of considerations and document. We welcome feedback at:
network of Compressed Natural Gas implications for the Irish gas market. ndp@gasnetworks.ie
(CNG) re-fuelling stations for public
and private network operators. This Gas Networks Ireland is active in a
will help establish a network of CNG number of European gas organisations
refuelling facilities along Irelands TEN-T that are assessing the readiness
Core Road Network, as required under of existing gas networks to carry
EU and National Policy on alternative hydrogen, including blends of natural Denis O’Sullivan,
fuels, and thus facilitating a transition gas and hydrogen. We are currently Managing Director,
to both natural gas and renewable developing a Hydrogen Innovation Gas Networks Ireland
gas as alternative fuels. The existing Centre at the Brownsbarn AGI site in
06 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
2.0
Executive
summary
The Network Development Plan (NDP)
provides a view of how the gas network
may develop over a ten-year period. It
is based on current supply and demand
for gas, as well as projections for growth
in gas consumption and development
of infrastructure. This report is being
published in accordance with Gas Networks
Ireland’s statutory requirements.
Gas Networks Ireland Executive summary 07
The assessment horizon covered in Net Zero Carbon Gas Network for
this report covers the ten-year period Ireland. Through a combination of Through a combination
from 2019/20 to 2028/29 inclusive. technologies, Gas Networks Ireland
The input data and assumptions used sets out one potential pathway
of technologies, Gas
for modelling gas supply and demand to reducing Ireland’s total carbon Networks Ireland sets out
scenarios over the ten-year period emissions by one third by creating a net one potential pathway to
were finalised in July 2020, in line zero carbon gas network. Vision 2050
reducing Ireland’s total
with the modelling ‘Data Freeze’ date. outlines one potential role that the gas
Further to this modelling data freeze, network and key technologies such as carbon emissions by one
production of the report extended to renewable gas, compressed natural third by creating a net
September 2020, and hence any non- gas for transport, Carbon Capture and zero carbon gas network.
modelling information such as historic Storage (CCS) and hydrogen can play
gas demand, project status and other in tackling climate change while also
ancillary developments in the gas and ensuring that Ireland has a sustainable
wider energy industry, available up and secure energy future. Vision 2050
until 30th September 2020 have been demonstrates how the gas network growth in 2019/20 against the previous
included in this report. supports decarbonisation for domestic year. Gas demand in this sector
customers, industrial users, transport, decreased by 1.6%. Within this figure
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a agriculture and power generation. a tale of 2 halves has emerged over
notable impact on gas demand in the 2019/20 gas year, whereby I/C gas
Ireland, since restrictions were first Gas Networks Ireland is currently demand was up by 3.5% in the first half
applied in March 2020. Commentary preparing a Network Implementation of the gas year (October 2019– March
has been included in this NDP on Plan in compliance with S.I. No. 2020), whereas I/C gas demand was
the resulting short-term impacts the 435/2004 – European Communities down by 7.4% in the second half of
pandemic has had on gas demand, (Environmental Assessment of Certain the gas year (April 2020 – September
as observed since March 2020. It is Plans and Programmes) Regulations 2020), when compared against the
still very early stages in assessing 2004, as amended (“SEA Regulations”) same periods in 2018/19. This trend is
the potential medium to long-term and S.I. No. 477/2011- European linked to the economic impact of the
impact on the Irish economy and Communities (Birds and Natural COVID-19 related ongoing restrictions.
consequentially on projected gas Habitats) Regulations, as amended Residential sector gas demand
demand in Ireland. The assumptions (“AA Regulations”). The Network increased by 5.6% in 2019/20, the
made in the NDP on the potential Implementation Plan will set out in majority portion of this growth being
short-term future economic impact more detail on the manner in which weather-related, with the balance being
of COVID-19 are based on the best projects identified in the Network related to new connections.
available information at the time of the Development Plan will be developed
modelling ‘Data Freeze’. However, given and the potential for cumulative effects In the power generation sector, annual
the fluid nature of the pandemic and on the environment that may arise gas demand for 2019/20 was 2.2%
the associated economic impact, the from these projects. above 2018/19 levels. This was despite
gas demand forecasting assumptions an increase in installed wind generation
for NDP 2020 carry a high degree of Annual Republic of Ireland (ROI) gas over the same period, and a reduction
uncertainty. Next year’s NDP (2021) demands for 2019/20 were 1.5% higher in electricity demand following the
will re-visit these assumptions and than 2018/19 demands following introduction of the COVID-19 related
adjust them accordingly as further on from a similar increase (2.0%) in restrictions in March 2020.
information becomes available on the the previous year. It is notable in the
potential longer-term economic impact context of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gas fired power generation accounted
of the COVID-19 pandemic. and the associated unprecedented for approximately 52% of Ireland’s
changes to how we now operate in our electricity generation in 2019, as the
Gas Networks Ireland, together with daily lives, Industrial and Commercial gas network continues to complement
its parent company Ervia, published (I/C) annual gas demand was the only renewable generation. The partnership
in October 2019, the Vision 2050 - A sector which experienced negative between flexible gas-fired power
08 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
2.0 Executive summary
(continued)
generation and intermittent namely Low, Best estimate and High The development of peak day demands
renewable generation will be a key demand scenarios. These scenarios are across the various scenarios shows
factor in enabling Ireland’s renewable designed to represent a broad range of the same broad trends as the annual
integration ambition into the future, as likely outcomes and are informed by a demand forecasts. However, there are a
set out in the Climate Action Plan and range of external and internal factors. number of key differences, particularly
the National Energy and Climate Plan. The NDP Best Estimate scenario is regarding the power generation sector
aligned to the ENTSOG/ENTSOE TYNDP gas demand profile. Over the forecast
In 2019 approximately 47% of Ireland’s Best Estimate and National Trends horizon 1-in-50 peak day demand is
gas demand (ROI) was supplied from scenarios. predicted to grow by 19.1%, and by
indigenous sources. The balance of 21.5% for the average year peak in the
supply, almost 53% came through the In the Best Estimate demand scenario Best Estimate demand scenario.
subsea interconnectors via the Moffat annual ROI gas demand is expected
Entry Point in Scotland. July 2020 to grow by 23% between 2019/20 and The Corrib gas field is expected to
marked the final commercial volumes 2028/29 with 7% growth forecast in meet approximately 27% of annual Gas
of gas supply from the Kinsale gas the Low demand scenario and growth Networks Ireland system demands
fields onto the Gas Networks Ireland of 45% forecast in the High demand (35% of ROI demand) in 2020/21, with
transmission system via the Inch Entry scenarios respectively over the same the Moffat Entry Point providing the
Point. horizon. These trends are dominated remaining 73%.
by the strong continued requirement
In order to inform how the gas network for gas fired power generation in There are a large number of properties
may develop over a ten-year period, the electricity system to meet the located close to the gas network
and to provide a comprehensive projected levels of demand growth in which are not connected to natural
analysis, Gas Networks Ireland has the electricity system. gas. It is estimated that there are over
developed three gas demand scenarios 700,000 households in Ireland using
for the period 2019/20 to 2028/29, oil for central heating of which 300,000Gas Networks Ireland Executive summary 09
Networks Ireland has developed a K Cashel on the M8 motorway. The
“Gas Networks Ireland combined offering of natural gas, stations are fully operational and
renewable gas and dark fibre services have been integrated with Circle K’s
now facilitates direct grid (through its subsidiary Aurora systems, and as such CNG is now
injection projects through a Telecom) to provide the data centre sold through the forecourt in a similar
connection policy framework sector with its primary source of fashion to diesel and petrol. A further
energy and fibre connectivity. Natural nine publicly accessible sites are
and is also supporting
gas can be used for onsite energy contracted with Forecourt Operators,
remote cluster developments generation leveraging the existing with project plans in place to deliver
with Central Grid Injection reliable gas network infrastructure, these stations over the next 2 years. In
(CGI) infrastructure.” offering data centre operators a addition, a private fast-fill CNG station
primary source of power for data is fully operational at the Clean Ireland
centres requiring 99.999% availability, Recycling premises in Smithstown
flexible on-site generation capacity Industrial Estate, Shannon, Co. Clare.
are located in close proximity to the to complement flexible grid power Clean Ireland Recycling have replaced
gas network and could be readily connections, or back up generation a portion of their diesel-powered fleet
connected to gas resulting in significant to cater for grid power outages. with dedicated CNG waste collection
benefits from an environmental Gas Networks Ireland expects the vehicles, the first of their kind to be
perspective, considering natural gas penetration of gas connections in this operated in Ireland. The company plan
emits 22% less CO2 and negligible levels sector to increase in the coming years. to transition the rest of their fleet to
of nitrogen dioxide (NOx) & sulphur these lower-emission CNG trucks in the
dioxide (SOx) versus oil. Where there Gas Networks Ireland is targeting the coming years.
is no natural gas network available, conversion of 24% of heavy goods
Gas Networks Ireland supports deep vehicles (HGV) and 13% of buses In 2017, Gas Networks Ireland
retrofit investment to bring as many of to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) launched its Compressed Natural Gas
Ireland’s homes to a B2 energy rating by 2030. By the end of the current Vehicle Fund making up to €20,000
standard. However, where homes NDP period (2028/29), Gas Networks available to businesses towards the
using oil (to provide heating and hot Ireland is expecting to see annual purchase of a new Natural Gas Vehicle
water) are located on or close to the CNG demand of circa 837.8 GWh/yr. (NGV). The Vehicle Fund has made a
natural gas network, Gas Networks Gas Networks Ireland is conducting a total of €700k of funding available to
Ireland recommends upgrading these project for a nationwide CNG fuelling transport operators, supporting the
homes to a B2 BER by carrying out network, co-located in existing purchase of a range of commercial
basic insulation, switching to high forecourts, on major routes and/or vehicles including trucks, buses
efficiency condensing gas boilers and close to urban centres. This will help and vans powered by Compressed
controls, replacing lighting with LED satisfy the requirements of the EU’s Natural Gas (CNG), and is part of a
equivalents and installing solar PV (European Union) Alternative Fuels process to promote natural gas as a
panels. This work can be carried out at Directive which aims to establish CNG transport fuel in Ireland. The Vehicle
up to one third of the cost of the deep refuelling facilities along the TEN-T Fund is supported by the Commission
retrofit works, and with significantly Core Road Network. The initial phase for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and
less disruption. This proposal means of this network rollout is through the is co-financed by the European
that up to 300,000 homes could be Causeway Study which has begun to Union’s TEN-T Programme under the
upgraded to a B2 BER at one third of deliver this essential infrastructure. Connecting Europe Facility as part of
the cost of the alternative deep retrofit The CNG Stations will be strategically the Causeway Project. This has been
costs, reducing CO2 emissions while located to deliver the required successfully allocated supporting
also future proofing these homes for outputs of the Causeway Study and to 39 dedicated natural gas vehicles in
renewable gas as it becomes available maximise utilisation of the assets. the market. These vehicles alone are
in greater quantities on the network. expected to utilise up to 20 GWh/ of
Public access stations have been CNG, emitting approximately 4,600
Ireland has rapidly emerged as a constructed at the Circle K Service tonnes less of CO2 per year.
prime data hosting destination. Gas Station in Dublin Port, and at Circle10 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
2.0 Executive summary
(continued)
Gas Networks Ireland commissioned establish the basis for “the coordinated
the first renewable gas grid injection planning and operation of the energy “Gas Networks Ireland
facility in Cush, County Kildare, and it system as a whole, across multiple energy
was officially declared an Entry Point in carriers”. In parallel, the EC’s Hydrogen
will continue to ensure
May 2020. Gas Networks Ireland now Strategy sets out an ambitious roadmap that a resilient, robust
facilitates direct grid injection projects for the development of a European and safe gas network is
through a connection policy framework hydrogen economy by 2030. According
maintained to customers
and is also supporting remote cluster to the Commission, hydrogen “offers a
developments with Central Grid solution to decarbonise industrial processes through appropriate and
Injection (CGI) infrastructure. As with and economic sectors where reducing efficient investment”
other renewable energy technologies, carbon emissions is both urgent and
renewable gas requires state policy hard to achieve”. Both strategies signal
and incentive supports to allow this a “review of the legislative framework to
industry to develop and grow to a design a competitive decarbonised gas Networks Ireland will mitigate against
long-term competitive fuel. With market, fit for renewable gases”, by 2021. these modelled system constraints to
the pending implementation of the Gas Networks Ireland will continue maintain system resilience and security
support scheme for the production to monitor these developments of supply. Any such mitigating works
and grid injection of biomethane, Gas and proactively engage with EU and are identified as part of the Network
Networks Ireland has produced three national stakeholders, in the context of Implementation Plan.
renewable gas production forecasts considerations and implications for the
(Low, Best Estimate and High) based Irish gas market. During late 2017 and early 2018, the
on assumed different levels of support. gas network has again demonstrated
The National Energy and Climate Plan Gas Networks Ireland is in the fourth its resilience through extreme weather
(NECP) has proposed an indicative year of its fourth regulatory Price events Storms Emma and Ophelia, with
target of 1.6 TWh/yr biomethane Control period (PC4) which concludes no loss of gas supply to households,
production by 2030, which will be in September 2022. The CRU has businesses or the power generation
reviewed in 2023 as part of the review given a capital allowance of €554m sector.
process for the NECP. In maintaining for investment in the distribution and
alignment to current policy measures, transmission networks. Gas Networks Ireland will continue to
the NDP Best Estimate scenario ensure that a resilient, robust and safe
assumes 1.4 TWh/yr of renewable gas Capacity limitations are identified on gas network is maintained to customers
in the supply mix by the end of the the network and addressed through through appropriate and efficient
current NDP period (2028/29), but appropriate capital investment investment. In the context of Brexit, in
further scope remains for renewable programmes in order to ensure addition to continued collaboration with
gas production beyond the NECP continuity of supply to all customers. our UK counterparts, Gas Networks
indicative target. In 2019, 11 projects were completed Ireland is fully committed to ensuring
The landmark European ‘Green Deal’ including 3 AGI Capacity Upgrades, that gas will continue to flow through
was announced by the European 7 Reinforcements of the Distribution its interconnectors and that gas supply
Commission (EC) in December 2019, Network and 1 CNG station located in will not be negatively impacted following
with the intention of transforming the Cashel. These projects were subject completion of the transitional period.
EU into a “fair and prosperous society, to the appropriate consenting and
with a modern, resource-efficient and planning regimes as set out in Section 3.
competitive economy where there are no
net emissions of greenhouse gases in 2050”. Gas Networks Ireland continuously
Following this, of keen interest to Gas undertakes detailed system modelling
Networks Ireland was the adoption of of the network in order to assess the
the constituent EU strategies for Energy capacity of the network. The Best
System Integration and Hydrogen Estimate demand scenario identified
announced in July 2020. The Strategy for in Section 6 is modelled to identify any
Energy System Integration sets out to potential capacity constraints. Gas12 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
3.0
Introduction
Key messages:
The gas network currently consists of 2,477
km of high pressure steel transmission
pipelines and 12,044 km lower pressure
polyethylene distribution pipelines.
Natural gas is available in 21 counties and
there are circa 700,000 users in Ireland.
The Network Development Plan (NDP)
provides a view of how the gas network may
develop over a ten-year period. It is based on
current supply and demand for gas, as well
as projections for growth in gas consumption
and development of infrastructure.Gas Networks Ireland Introduction 13
3.1 Licence/regulatory The project of common interest (PCI large capital projects and proposed
obligations 12.6), the Ervia Cork Carbon Capture new technologies, these projects are
Gas Networks Ireland is a wholly Utilisation & Storage (CCUS) project, subject to the appropriate consenting
owned subsidiary of Ervia and was was included on the 4th list of PCI and planning regimes as set out
established in accordance with the projects as published in October under the Gas Acts 1976 to 2009,
Gas Regulation Act 2013, as amended. 2019. This potential project will involve the Planning and Development Acts
It owns and operates the natural gas the development of the necessary 2000 to 2011 and other relevant
transmission and distribution networks infrastructure to transport captured National and European law. In
in Ireland. As Ireland’s gas Transmission CO2 from a CCUS cluster of heavy order to assist with its obligations
System Operator (TSO), Gas Networks industry (oil refinery) and two gas in this regard, Gas Networks Ireland
Ireland is required to submit a ten-year fired CCGTs to enable the CO2 to be implements an environmental and
Network Development Plan to the transported either to local geological planning assessment procedure for
Commission of Regulation of Utilities store or if unavailable to another store works designed and planned for Gas
(CRU) in accordance with Article 22 of managed by another CCUS project Networks Ireland. This procedure
EU Directive 2009/73/EC and Article 11 developer. includes an environmental assessment
of the EC2 (Internal Market in Natural tool known as ‘envirokit’ supported
Gas and Electricity) (Amendment) The project of common interest (PCI by a guidance document known
Regulations 2015. Gas Networks 12.4), the Northern Lights project, was as ‘enviroplan’. Together they are a
Ireland is also obliged to submit a long- included on the 4th list of PCI projects bespoke environmental planning
term development statement to the as published in October 2019. The and assessment tool modelled on
CRU in accordance with condition 11 of project, being led by the Norwegian environmental legal and regulatory
its Transmission System Operator and company Equinor and in which Ervia is requirements and best environmental
Distribution System Operator licences. a partner, is a commercial CO2 cross- practice, including requirements
The publication of the NDP also border transport connection project pursuant to the EIA Directive (85/337/
satisfies the requirements of Section between several European capture EEC), as amended and the Habitats
19 of the Gas (Interim) (Regulations) Act initiatives where the captured CO2 will Directive (92/43/EEC), as amended. This
2002, as amended by the European be transported by ship to a storage site procedure ensures that environmental
Communities (Security of Natural Gas on the Norwegian continental shelf. and planning matters and appropriate
Supply) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 697 mitigation measures are considered
of 2007). This requires the CRU to The 5th PCI list is expected to and communicated during the design
monitor and publish a report outlining be published by the European and project planning stages of all
gas supply and demand in Ireland over Commission in October 2021. ENTSOG Gas Network Ireland projects. Gas
seven years. will evaluate all candidate gas projects Networks Ireland is currently preparing
as required, as part of its Ten-Year a Network Implementation Plan which
In accordance with Article 3 of Network Development Plan (TYNDP) will be screened for the purposes of
Regulation (EU) 347/2013, as amended, and project promoters will need to compliance with the SEA (Strategic
on guidelines for trans-European apply to the European Commission for Environmental Assessment) and AA
energy infrastructure, Gas Networks inclusion on the 5th PCI list in 2021. (Appropriate Assessment) Regulations
Ireland is obliged to confer with and which will set out in more detail
regional groups on relevant regional 3.2 Environmental and the manner in which projects identified
and national infrastructure plans. planning considerations in the Network Development Plan will
The purpose of the NDP is to assess be developed and it will also assess the
The project of common interest (PCI the gas network’s capacity based potential for cumulative effects on the
5.3), Shannon LNG, has been included on existing and forecast supply and environment that may arise from these
on the 4th PCI list published in October demand in order to guarantee the projects.
2019. This independent third-party adequacy of the gas transportation
project potentially involves a new system and security of supply.
entry point near Ballylongford in Co. While it outlines a number of capital
Kerry and a connection to the ROI gas projects which will be delivered over
transmission system. the coming years, future proposed
2 European Commission14 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
3.0 Introduction
(continued)
3.3 Overview of the Gas From just 31 km of transmission The distribution infrastructure is
Networks Ireland system pipeline in 1978, the Gas Networks typically operated at 4 barg and
Gas Networks Ireland builds, develops Ireland network currently consists less than 100 mbarg for inner city
and operates Ireland’s world-class gas of 2,477 km of high pressure steel networks.
infrastructure, maintaining over 14,521 transmission pipelines and 12,044
km of gas pipelines and two sub-sea km lower pressure polyethylene The natural gas network has
interconnectors. distribution pipelines, as well as Above demonstrated resilience and reliability
Ground Installations (AGIs), District through severe winter weather
The Gas Networks Ireland transmission Regulating Installations (DRIs) and conditions, particularly during January
network includes onshore Scotland, compressor stations. AGIs and DRIs are and December 2010 when record
interconnectors and the onshore used to control and reduce pressures sub-zero temperatures were recorded.
ROI network. The interconnector on the network. During late 2017 and early 2018, the
(IC) sub-system comprises of two gas network again demonstrated its
subsea interconnectors between ROI The ROI onshore part of the system resilience through extreme weather
and Scotland; compressor stations consists primarily of a ring-main events, storm Emma and Ophelia, with
at Beattock and Brighouse Bay. The system with spur lines serving various no loss of gas supply to households,
interconnector system connects network configurations. businesses or the power generation
to Great Britain’s (GB) National sector. Natural gas is available in 21
Transmission System (NTS) at Moffat The gas infrastructure is differentiated counties and there are circa 700,000
in Scotland. It also supplies gas to by the following pressure regimes: users in Ireland. Gas Networks Ireland
the Northern Ireland (NI) market via is responsible for connecting all new
ྲྲ High pressure transmission
Twynholm, Scotland and the Isle of gas customers to the network, and for
infrastructure which operates above
Man (IOM) market via the second work on service pipes and meters at
16 barg;
subsea interconnector (IC2). customers’ premises, on behalf of all
ྲྲ Distribution infrastructure which gas suppliers in Ireland.
operates below 16 barg.
Figure 3-1: Gas Networks Ireland total network breakdown
2,477 km 12,044 km
transmission distribution
pipeline pipeline
Total network length
14,521 kmGas Networks Ireland Introduction 15
Figure 3-2: Overview of the Gas
Networks Ireland transmission system
Existing Pipelines
Pipelines Owned by Others
Interconnection Points
Entry Point
Scotland
Renewable Gas Entry Point
Moffat
Coleraine Beattock
Terregles
Derry City
Ballymoney
Limavady
Twynholm AGI
Ballymena
Brighouse Bay Kirkcudbright
Strabane Antrim
Magherafelt
Cookstown Carrickfergus
Omagh Coalisland Belfast
Dungannon Lurgan
Corrib Gas Field Portadown Craigavon
Enniskillen Armagh Banbridge
Bellanaboy Tullykenney
Derrylin
Newry
Lough Egish
Ballina r2
Cootehill cto Isle of Man
Crossmolina
Carrickmacross
Dundalk
n ne
rco
r1
e
Int
to
Castlebar Bailieborough Kingscourt
Virginia ec
nn
co
Westport Claremorris Kells Drogheda
er
Int
Navan
Ballinrobe Gormanston
Ballymahon Mullingar
Trim
Tuam
Headford Athlone
Kilcock Loughshinny
Enfield
Ballinasloe
Galway Prosperous Dublin
Tullamore Naas
Craughwell Kildare Bray
Tynagh Portarlington Blessington
Loughrea Monasterevin Ballymore Eustace
Gort
Portlaoise Kilcullen
Wicklow
Cush Rathdrum
Athy
Ennis Sixmilebridge Nenagh Carlow Arklow
Ballina Ballyragget
Shannon Kilkenny
Limerick
Aughinish Askeaton Tipperary
Town Cashel
Great
Carrick-on-Suir Island
Cahir
Listowel Charleville Wexford
Mitchelstown Clonmel Waterford
Ardfinnan Tramore
Mallow Belview
Fermoy Port
Cork
Macroom
Bandon Whitegate
Ballineen
Kinsale Inch Terminal
Kinsale Head Gas Field
Seven Heads Gas Field
] The Kinsale gas fields and the associated Inch Entry Point
are currently undergoing a decommissioning process.16 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
4.0
The future of the
gas network
Key messages:
Gas Networks Ireland, together with its
parent company Ervia, published “Vision
2050 - A Net Zero Carbon Gas Network for
Ireland” on the 3rd of October 2019.
Replacing diesel in HGVs and buses with CNG
can deliver immediate emissions reductions,
air quality improvement (by eliminating
particulate matter) and noise reduction.
CCS can capture up to 100% of the CO2
emissions produced from the use of fossil
fuels in electricity generation and industrial
processes, significantly reducing the amount
of carbon dioxide entering the atmosphere.
Hydrogen may be stored indefinitely
and may be used in heat, transport,
industry or power generation.
Gas Networks Ireland welcomes the strength of
the ambition and the associated governance set
out in the Climate Action Plan and recognises
that Ireland must significantly increase its
commitments to tacking climate disruption.Gas Networks Ireland The future of the gas network 17 Gas Networks Ireland, together with its parent company Ervia, published “Vision 2050 – A Net Zero Carbon Gas Network for Ireland”3 on the 3rd of October 2019. Through a combination of technologies, Gas Networks Ireland sets out one potential pathway to reducing Ireland’s total carbon emissions by one third by creating a net zero carbon gas network. Vision 2050 outlines one potential role that the gas network and key technologies such as renewable gas, compressed natural gas (CNG) for transport, carbon capture and storage (CCS) and hydrogen can play in tackling climate change while also ensuring that Ireland has a sustainable and secure energy future. Vision 2050 demonstrates how the gas network supports decarbonisation for domestic customers, industrial users, transport, agriculture and power generation. Today, gas is used to generate approximately 52% of Ireland’s electricity. A move to achieving a 70% renewable energy share in electricity generation (RES-E), such as from wind and solar, is planned by 2030 Ireland has a secure energy supply at CCS, meaning Ireland can continue to as part of ambitious national climate all times. benefit from the reliability of the gas action targets. And while Ireland network in a low carbon future. has excellent renewable resources, Natural Gas is the earth’s cleanest renewable energy, by its very fossil fuel. It emits 40% less CO2 than In line with emerging energy policy and nature, is intermittent – sometimes coal and 22% less CO2 than oil4. It also climate ambition targets, Gas Networks the wind doesn’t blow, or the sun produces negligible levels of nitrogen Ireland is continuously reviewing and doesn’t shine. As such, for renewable dioxide (NOx) and sulphur dioxide (SOx) developing further potential pathways energy to achieve its full potential, compared to oil or coal. Switching from to achieve a decarbonised gas network investment in complementary energy these higher carbon fuels to natural by 2050, with a view to complementing is required. Natural gas is the optimal gas can deliver immediate emissions and enhancing the pathway set out complementary energy source for benefits. The existing gas network is in Vision 2050. It is intended to share renewable energy such as wind and already capable of taking on significant these pathways as the Vision 2050 solar. Achieving 70% RES-E will require new energy demands. Crucially, publication is refreshed through future a significant reliance on gas powered up to 100% of the carbon dioxide editions. electricity generation to provide the emissions from gas powered electricity balance of requirements and to ensure generation can be captured through 3 https://www.gasnetworks.ie/vision-2050/future-of-gas/GNI_Vision_2050_Report_Final.pdf 4 Government of Ireland, 2019, Climate Action Plan, https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ccb2e0-the-climate-action-plan-2019/
18 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
4.0 The future of the gas network
(continued)
Figure 4-1: The future of the gas network
Natural gas imports
Indigenous natural gas
Biomethane
BIO
injection CNG
Local anerobic RNG
digestion
H
H C H
H
Biomethane
Off site
agri anerobic
digestion
BIO Industrial &
CNG
Hydrogen commercial Residential
transport
H2Gas Networks Ireland The future of the gas network 19
Gas fired Industrial & Data
heat pumps commercial centres Residential
NGV
CNG
CNG
CO2
Power CO2 capture unit CO2 compression CO2 underground
generation & conditioning storage
Electrical
Network
Wind
Solar
CO2
Electrolysis O2 H2
Steam methane
reformer
Biomethane
injection20 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
4.0 The future of the gas network
(continued)
4.1 Compressed (Transport) provides more detail in sustainable feedstock and consider
Natural Gas (CNG) relation to CNG. how the supports necessary to reach
CNG is natural gas stored under high such a target would be funded5. Gas
pressure. Replacing diesel in HGVs 4.2 Renewable gas Networks Ireland is active in facilitating
and buses with CNG can deliver Renewable Gas is biomethane (purified the emergence and uptake of this new
immediate emissions reductions, air biogas) produced from existing waste energy source via the existing gas
quality improvement (by eliminating streams and a variety of sustainable network. A network of renewable gas
particulate matter) and noise biomass sources, including grass, injection points is under development
reduction. CNG is particularly well animal waste, crop residues and food with the first commissioned in 2019.
suited to delivering the high power waste. It is net zero carbon, extremely Gas Networks Ireland is working
and distance requirements of heavy- versatile and fully compatible with with Teagasc, Marine and Renewable
duty transport including HGVs, buses existing gas network infrastructure. Energy Ireland (MaREI) and other key
and ships. Bio-CNG is renewable gas It is identical in standard to natural stakeholders to develop plans for a
stored under high pressure. It can be gas and can be used for all the same renewable gas industry for Ireland
used as a renewable transport fuel applications, using the same machinery in partnership with farmers and
in the same way as CNG but delivers (boilers, appliances, etc.). It can be communities. Gas Networks Ireland
even greater emissions savings. Gas blended with, or can act as a substitute has implemented a registry system
Networks Ireland is conducting studies for, natural gas. to issue certificates for renewable gas
for a nationwide CNG fuelling network, injected into the Gas Networks Ireland
co-located in existing forecourts, on Action 130 of the Climate Action grid (Green Gas Certificates). This
major routes and/ or close to urban Plan sets out the Government’s system provides proof of the origin
centres. This comprehensive refuelling intention to set a target for the level of and sustainability of renewable gas
station network will allow a transition energy to be supplied by indigenous sources which will stimulate the use of
to both natural gas and renewable biomethane injection in 2030, taking renewable gas by industry and other
gas as alternative fuels. Section 8.4 account of the domestic supplies of sectors.
Figure 4-2: Renewable gas story
Cleaner environment
Cleaner energy Agriculture
for electricity,
heat & transport Food production
The renewable
gas story
Renewable gas Farm & food waste
injected into the
gas network
Renewable gas Anaerobic digester
transported
Bio-fertiliser
Carbon neutral renewable gas
5 https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/43721d-annex-of-actions/Gas Networks Ireland The future of the gas network 21
Figure 4-3: Carbon capture and storage
CO2
Gas-fired CCGT Carbon CO2 CO2 CO2
power plant or capture unit compression transportation underground
industry and storage
conditioning
Existing or new All of the CO2 The captured CO2 CO2 is transported The CO2 is injected
power plant / separated from is compressed by pipeline or ship into the depleted
emissions point exhaust gas and dried to a suitable store oil and gas field
or a saline aquifer
for permanent
storage
It is envisioned that a number of captured CO2 is then compressed Climate Action Plan further identified
Centralised Grid Injection facilities will and conditioned and transported to a the potential for CCS and set about the
be geographically dispersed across the suitable storage site, either an offshore establishment of a Steering Group to
country at locations in close proximity depleted gas field or a saline aquifer. examine and oversee the feasibility of
to the existing gas grid. Renewable the utilisation of CCS in Ireland.
gas producers within 60km of the From a policy perspective, the Irish Working in conjunction with the
existing gas grid will be able to avail of Government’s National Mitigation Government’s CCS Steering Group,
these facilities, using high capacity gas Plan6 (NMP) (2017) recognised that Gas Networks Ireland and Ervia are
storage trailers to transport their gas “CCS could facilitate decarbonisation currently carrying out a study into
via road, and inject into the national of our electricity sector while allowing the feasibility of CCS for Ireland. In
gas grid. The locations of these Central an appropriate level of gas fired October 2019, EirGrid, published their
Gas Injection facilities are not yet generation to balance intermittent Tomorrow’s Energy Scenarios (TES)
finalised, and Gas Networks Ireland is renewable generation”. The policy 2019 report. The TES sets out a range
currently assessing their feasibility. document committed to an action of credible pathways for Ireland’s clean
to “explore the feasibility of utilising energy transition, with specific focus
4.3 Carbon Capture suitable reservoirs of CO2 storage” on what it means for the electricity
and Storage (CCS) while also recognising that a feasibility transmission system over the next 20
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is a study should be undertaken to years. The TES is based on Government
suite of technologies that can capture determine the potential application of policy objectives around renewable
up to 95% of the carbon dioxide (CO2) CCS in Ireland in the future. energy share in electricity (RES-E) and
emissions produced from the use of emission reductions targets. Two of
fossil fuels in electricity generation Leading on from the NMP, in June 2019 the three scenarios modelled deliver
and industrial processes, significantly the Government published its “Climate 70% RES-E by 2030 with both scenarios
reducing the amount of carbon Action Plan 2019 – To Tackle Climate deploying CCS as a decarbonising
dioxide entering the atmosphere. The Breakdown”. Action 33 from the technology. The scenario which does
6 https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/48d4e-national-mitigation-plan/22 Gas Networks Ireland Network Development Plan 2020
4.0 The future of the gas network
(continued)
Gas Networks Ireland in conjunction Ervia Cork Carbon Capture Utilisation &
“The Norwegian government with Ervia is investigating the potential Storage (CCUS) Project (PCI 12.6). This
for a large-scale CCS project in Ireland project will involve the development
has committed to supporting to capture the CO2 from a number of of the necessary infrastructure to
the Northern Lights gas-fired CCGT power plants (so that transport captured CO2 from a CCUS
project with c. €1.5 bn to they can provide low-carbon electricity) cluster of heavy industry (oil refinery)
and from large-scale industrial emitters. and two gas fired CCGTs to enable the
develop a store which will
The initial phase of the feasibility CO2 to be transported either to local
be open to receive CO2 study looked to quantify the potential geological store or if unavailable to
from across Europe. “ for CCS across electricity generation another store managed by another
and industry and concentrated on CCUS project developer. The import
indigenous storage at the depleted infrastructure and geological store
not deploy CCS does not meet either Kinsale Head gas field. Initial will also be made available as a
the RES-E or the emissions reduction assessments of the potential for storage backup storage facility to other CCUS
targets. EirGrid identify the benefit at the Kinsale field are positive and over developments. The utilisation of CO2
of ‘pursuing both CCS and renewable the coming years Ervia will progress was included in the project scope to
gas options for Ireland as this reduces further the feasibility and the potential account for the reuse of a proportion
the reliance on a single option, while for CCS with indigenous storage. of CO2 as a feedstock to industry.
helping to mitigate as much as possible
a long-term reliance on non-abated During this phase of the feasibility In May 2020 Ervia applied to the CEF
fossil fuels’. study, Ervia engaged with the fund to undertake pre-Front End
Norwegian company Equinor, a world Engineering and Design (FEED) studies
Currently in Ireland, natural gas leader in CCS technology. In September of the key components of a CO2
fired power generation makes up 2019, Ervia signed a Memorandum transportation network under the Ervia
approximately 52% of Ireland’s current of Understanding with Equinor and PCI. Following on from this, in October
electricity needs and at certain will now work with Equinor and the 2020 Ervia received notification that
times of the year, June/July 2018, this Norwegian Government’s wider the application was successful. The
has averaged at over 70% and has ‘Northern Lights’ project which aims to study will examine different scenarios
peaked at up to 90%. Ireland also has drive CCS development across Europe. of CO2 emissions, including volume and
a large percentage of its electricity The Norwegian government has supply profiles, and will focus initially
needs met by renewable generation committed to supporting the Northern on the Cork CCUS cluster but will be
(approximately 31% in 2019) which Lights project with c. €1.5 bn to develop applicable to all other potential clusters
in the long term is expected to need a store which will be open to receive in Ireland.
low-carbon dispatchable generation CO2 from across Europe. If successful,
to back it up and to provide electricity the project would see carbon Ervia and Gas Networks Ireland will
when there isn’t any renewable emissions from Ireland’s electricity continue to assess CCS options for
generation available. production and large industry power generation and industry, and
captured and exported via ship to be in addition for low-carbon hydrogen
Given Ireland’s limited alternative permanently stored in Norway’s vast production.
options for low-carbon dispatchable geological reserves in the North Sea.
generation, CCS on gas-fired power This is known as the ‘Export Option’ 4.4 Hydrogen
generation has emerged as a viable and will be explored further, in parallel Hydrogen is a carbon free flammable
option. with the indigenous storage option. gas that can be produced from
Through an export model, Ireland can renewable electricity and be stored
Globally it is also recognised that there access CCS solutions with lower risk indefinitely.
are certain manufacturing industries and commitment.
that have no solution to decarbonise Internationally hydrogen is primarily
other than CCS. These include oil The project has been granted Project produced for the industrial gas market
refining, cement manufacturing and of Common Interest (PCI) status in by separating it from natural gas. It is
incineration, all of which are operating October 2019 which enables it to apply anticipated that this process will be
in Ireland and producing significant for Connecting Europe Facility (CEF) enhanced by capturing and storing the
emissions. funding. The title of the project is the resulting carbon dioxide in the shortGas Networks Ireland The future of the gas network 23
to medium term and in the long term Brownsbarn AGI site with funding Power to gas
renewable hydrogen production from from the Gas Innovation Fund. This Power to gas describes the production
water electrolysis will dominate. is facility is independent of the gas of hydrogen by electrolysis, the
network and will use certified blends chemical decomposition of water into
The EC has recently released a of natural gas and hydrogen for the hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen
communication ‘A hydrogen strategy purposes of assessing the compatibility produced is classified as green
for a climate-neutral Europe ‘. This of elements of the distribution network hydrogen when it is produced by
landmark document sets out the and appliances typically used in renewable electricity and carbon does
ambition for hydrogen in Europe Ireland. The facility will be able to begin not feature in the production process
and the phases it foresees in its the process of evaluating aspects or gas itself. Green hydrogen is the
development. There is recognition of the network that are particular to preferred production method in the
that hydrogen is required to achieve Ireland and provide an opportunity long term once both the production
full decarbonisation of the energy use for Gas Networks Ireland staff and equipment and renewable electricity
and will be needed to decarbonise stakeholders to gain experience of sources such as offshore wind scale up
high heat applications in industry hydrogen blends. sufficiently.
and heavy use transport. Hydrogen
is also envisaged as playing a role in Gas Networks Ireland in conjunction Renewable electricity developers have
space heating and dispatchable power with Ervia maintain links with a engaged with Gas Networks Ireland,
generation. The EC has signalled an number of Ireland’s leading academic exploring the potential for hydrogen
intention to put substantial investment institutions who are conducting production and this has resulted in
into hydrogen and establish it as a research into the potential role of several connection enquiries being
major pillar in a future decarbonised hydrogen in Ireland. Gas Networks submitted and responded to. This is a
energy system. Ireland is part of the Energy Systems particularly interesting development
Integration Partnership Programme in two respects. Firstly, it provides
Research (ESIPP) and works closely with an early indication of the level of
Gas Networks Ireland is active in a University College Dublin (UCD) in a interest there may be from renewable
number of European gas organisations number of projects including modelling developers to enter a new green
that are assessing the readiness how power to gas may interact with hydrogen production market. Secondly
of existing gas networks to carry gas network. Gas Networks Ireland it has encouraged us to start looking
hydrogen and blends of natural gas are an associate partner in the into the implications of hydrogen
and hydrogen. There is increasing GenComm project led by Belfast producers connecting to the network,
confidence of the ability of the Metropolitan College and in which raising questions such as where the
polyethylene distribution networks the National University of Ireland appropriate locations for connection
in particular to carry up to 100% Galway (NUIG) and Viridian are key are, and the need for storage to ensure
hydrogen. The polyethylene material participants. This Interreg funded both gas quality and the available
itself is compatible and experience is project plans to produce renewable quantity can be maintained for
being gained through demonstration hydrogen for supply to buses in Belfast. customers. Further engagement with
projects on new and existing networks. Gas Networks Ireland are associate prospective producers will also result
Work on assessing the compatibility of partners in the Hydrogen Utilisation in the development of the technical
steel transmission pipelines in ongoing and Green Energy (HUGE) project in requirements and identifying the costs
and there is progress in identifying the association with NUIG examining the associated with hydrogen injection.
challenges and mitigations associated potential role of hydrogen in remote
with transporting hydrogen. The communities. The EC launched its ‘Strategy for
evaluation of the suitability of the Energy System Integration’ on 8th
gas network in Ireland will be a major Gas Networks Ireland are currently of July 2020. This is one of the most
focus for Gas Networks Ireland in the working with Hydrogen Ireland ambitious and all-encompassing
coming years to establish the suitability Association which is proposing project elements of the European ‘Green Deal’
of safely transporting hydrogen and HyLight – a project focused on the (refer to Section 9.2.5), providing the
blends of hydrogen. production and injection of hydrogen basis for “the coordinated planning and
to the gas network. operation of the energy system as a
Gas Networks Ireland is developing whole, across multiple energy carriers,
a Hydrogen Innovation Centre at the infrastructures, and consumptionYou can also read
