Britain’s gas networks set out core innovation priorities for next two years

The strategy has been developed with input from more than 130 stakeholders across industry, government and academia, and covers the first two years of the RIIO-3 price control period, spanning 2026 - 2028.

The strategy is centred around five core innovation themes, which set out the industry’s key priorities. These themes are:

• Reducing our environmental footprint: accelerating efforts to cut emissions, tackle gas leakage and ramp up low-carbon technologies.
• Digital by default: embedding advanced data, artificial intelligence and digital tools such as digital twins to improve decision-making, efficiency and network resilience.
• Whole system pathways: strengthening coordination across gas, electricity and emerging energy systems to support integrated, long-term planning.
• Equitable energy for everyone: ensuring vulnerable customers are protected and supported throughout the energy transition.
• Flexible and seamless connections: enabling the growth of green gases such as biomethane and hydrogen.

Against the backdrop of a changing energy landscape, the strategy outlines the principles that will enable networks to meet the twin challenges of accelerating decarbonisation and strengthening energy security, flexibility and resilience.

The strategy stresses the importance of collaboration across the energy sector, with strong partnership working between networks regulators, technology providers and other infrastructure operators essential to accelerate innovation and minimise duplication.

Commenting, Nolan Robertson, Senior Manager at Future Energy Networks said: “During a period of profound change for Britain’s energy system, this strategy sets out a clear and coordinated plan for how gas networks will harness cutting-edge innovation over the next couple of years.

“By focusing on five key innovation themes - from reducing emissions and embracing digitalisation to supporting vulnerable customers – we show how innovation can help keep homes warm, lights on, and industry powered, all while accelerating the transition to a decarbonised future.”

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/business-news/01042026/britains-gas-networks-set-out-core-innovation-priorities-for-next-two-years/