Phoenix Energy yesterday hosted the ‘Renewable Gas Conference’, bringing together industry leaders, policy makers and expert academics charged with progressing decarbonisation solutions within the local gas market. The theme of the event was ‘No Regrets, Actions Today’ and delegates heard gas industry representatives make specific commitments which will speed up the path to a decarbonised gas supply.
Speakers included representatives from relevant central and local Government departments, the Institute of Gas Engineers and Managers, Queens University and from Lars Kaspersen SVP, from Nature Energy in Denmark, who outlined a decade of growth in Biomethane injection into the Danish gas system which now accounts for over 40% of their total gas volumes.
Speaking at the event, Kailash Chada, Phoenix Chief Executive outlined its significance.
"In the last number of years, the gas industry in NI has been actively shaping the role that NI’s £1 Billion modern gas network asset will play in enabling a resilient, affordable and decarbonised gas solutions for the c.550,000 properties that have gas infrastructure availability.. We are now entering a milestone project phase of introducing renewable gas solutions into the regional gas network in Northern Ireland. Production and use of biomethane in our gas network is becoming a reality and not only does this signal the start of our journey to displace natural gas volumes, it also provides additional economic and environmental value across both the agricultural and business sectors.
“Events such as today are prime opportunities to share our roadmap with likeminded international and regional colleagues, refining our plans to learn from best practice adopted models.
“At our event today Phoenix Energy and our industry counterparts evolve, firmus, Mutual Energy and Gas Networks Ireland made specific commitments around Research & Development, further investment in the gas network, advancement of biomethane and hydrogen technologies and processes.
“I believe we are on the cusp of a new dawn within the energy sector in Northern Ireland. However it will require a cohesive effort with support from Executive departments, from a restored Assembly, from the Utility Regulator, and from our industry partners. As the gas sector comes together this week our message is let’s have no regrets, let’s take action today.”
Among those attending the event was Clare Guinness, CEO of Belfast Chamber of Trade and Commerce. Claire welcomed the event.
“Belfast Chamber is delighted to participate in this conference which will explore the multiplicity of sustainable energy and heat sources that we have at our disposal including biomethane, green hydrogen and e fuels. The opportunity is both environmental and economic as embracing net zero will help Belfast retain and attract investment, create opportunities for our local companies in the green economy and compete in globally for much needed patient green capital to effect transition from fossil fuels”