Renewable energy company Nephin Renewable Gas (NRG) has announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Gas Networks Ireland.
The move aims to accelerate the development and integration of biomethane production into Ireland’s gas network, contributing to the decarbonisation of the gas network and advancing the country’s climate action targets.
The MoU outlines the collaborative engagement between the two networks to efficiently connect NRG’s biomethane plants into Gas Networks Ireland’s gas network.
Support will be given to NRG by providing connections to the gas network, enabling the direct injection of biomethane into the gas grid.
The MoU also commits both parties to explore further engagement on how NRG can access the Centralised Grid Injection Facility (CGI).
The commencement of construction for the CGI was officially marked last week, in the attendance of Tánaiste Micheál Martin.
The facilities will allow biomethane producers, even those not located near the gas network, to inject their biomethane into the network at centralised points.
NRG and Gas Networks Ireland
The memorandum also details Gas Networks Ireland ‘s commitment to addressing regulatory, access and consent issues associated with connecting to the gas grid in an efficient and timely manner.
Gas Networks Ireland will also collaborate with Nephin Renewable Gas to standardise, where possible, the design and safety requirements for grid access.
Furthermore, it will be ensured that adequate resourcing for NRG of relevant teams to expedite the delivery of these grid connection projects.
Group Chief Executive of Nephin Energy, Tom O’Brien said: “Injecting biomethane directly into the gas grid is the fastest and most efficient way to decarbonise Ireland’s gas network and help Ireland achieve its climate action targets.”
“This collaboration not only supports our business goals but also benefits the rural communities in which we operate by providing new revenue streams for farmers and generating new employment opportunities locally,” O’Brien added.
By gradually replacing natural gas with renewable gases, such as biomethane and hydrogen, Gas Networks Ireland aims to deliver a net-zero carbon gas network by 2050.
Nephin Renewable Gas is the first biomethane development company to sign this type of agreement with Gas Networks Ireland.
The company aims to support Ireland’s climate goals by producing sustainable energy and creating economic growth in rural communities.