Evolve Year Review 2023

Year Review 2023

Evolve Year Review 2023

Foreword by David Butler As we stand on the brink of a new year, I am delighted to reflect upon the noteworthy milestones that have defined Evolve’s journey throughout 2023.

This has been a year of significant achievements, and it is with immense pride that we share our transformative endeavours with you all.

Foremost among our accomplishments is the ground-breaking injection of biomethane directly into the Northern Ireland gas grid. This historic milestone, occurring in Co. Tyrone within the Evolve network, marks the first-ever direct-to-grid injection of this fully renewable energy source on the island of Ireland. In an era marked by escalating environmental concerns, this achievement is a testament to our commitment to sustainable energy solutions and the broader mission to decarbonise the west of Northern Ireland.

The injection of biomethane at Dungannon this year stands as a beacon of innovation and progress. Biomethane, derived from organic materials, has gained significant traction due to its potential to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote energy independence. This initiative, spearheaded by Evolve, not only represents a transformative step for our company but also contributes to the broader energy industry in Northern Ireland.

In tandem with our biomethane commitments, we have embarked on a rebranding journey that aligns with our evolving aspirations. Formerly known as SGN Natural Gas, our transition to the new brand identity of Evolve reflects our dedication to progress, sustainability, and community service. This rebranding is not merely a change in name; it embodies a commitment to shaping the energy landscape with a focus on innovation, collaboration, and responsibility.

Amidst these milestones, our commitment to business as usual activities has remained steadfast. Since the commencement of our energy infrastructure project, commonly referred to as ‘Gas to the West,’ in 2015, we have built over 500km of mains in the west of Northern Ireland, spanning Counties Derry/Londonderry, Fermanagh, and Tyrone. Achieving a penetration rate of close to 18% in the domestic market within our first year, we

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have successfully converted significant commercial users, including the largest in Northern Ireland.

Our commitment to decarbonise the entire network by 2030 is a testament to our proactive approach and leadership in shaping a sustainable future. What sets our network apart is its perfect alignment for this transition. Crafted with foresight, our infrastructure, built from polyethylene pipework, is ideally suited for transporting biomethane seamlessly. The beauty of this journey lies not only in its environmental benefit but also in its practicality – gas network customers do not need to change their heating equipment at all.

This exemplifies our dedication to providing the communities we serve with greater access to sustainable energy.

In our pursuit of a greener future, the concept of a “just transition” holds paramount importance. As we navigate the complexities of evolving our energy landscape, a just transition embodies the principles of fairness, equity, and inclusivity. It demands cooperation and coordinated efforts from all stakeholders – government bodies, businesses, researchers, customers, and communities. We acknowledge that this transformative journey must leave no one behind. It requires a delicate balance between economic viability and environmental responsibility. A just transition ensures that as we embrace cleaner energy alternatives, we consider the well-being of our communities and the workers who are integral to our current energy infrastructure. Northern Ireland’s first biomethaneto-grid connection is not merely a token connection but a commitment to navigate this intricate path with collective expertise and resources, fostering a future that is not only sustainable but also equitable for all.

So, as we celebrate the accomplishments of the past 12 months and anticipate the opportunities of the future, I extend my heartfelt wishes for a joyous festive season and a new year filled with prosperity, sustainability, and shared success.

Sincerely,

David Butler David Butler Director, Evolve

Evolve Year Review 2023

Major milestone for biomethane injection A major milestone was confirmed in early 2023 for the gas grids in Northern Ireland as it was announced the injection of biomethane, a 100% renewable fuel, would take place in the Evolve (previously SGN Natural Gas) network this year through a unique collaboration with Granville Eco Park Ltd, part of the Bio Capital Group and based in Dungannon. Click the image below to read more.

Gas industry welcomes biomethane recognition in Climate Change Committee Report The NI Gas Network Operators (NI GNOs) – Evolve, Phoenix Natural Gas, firmus energy, Mutual Energy & GNI(UK) – welcomed the publication of the Climate Change Committee’s advice on a Carbon Budget for Northern Ireland. We believe it reinforces the scale of the opportunity and challenges that the pathway to a net zero future provides. It is critically important that Executive Departments, industry, and wider stakeholders continue to progress at pace the detailed planning required to develop a practical implementation plan to decarbonise Northern Ireland at the least cost and disruption to consumers. Click here for more information.

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Evolve Year Review 2023

COP28: Historic deal agreed The recent COP28 climate summit in Dubai marked a significant milestone in the global effort to combat climate change. The climate talks committed to transition away from all fossil fuels for the first time.

The summit also recognised the strategic importance that lower carbon fuels such as natural gas will play as a ‘stepping stone’ in the shift to cleaner energy.

This recommendation is consistent with the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy, ensuring a clear message from all facets of government. If the region is committed to effectively addressing climate change, following these recommendations should lead to a rapid acceleration in both homes and government buildings transitioning from legacy fuels to gas connections.

David Butler addresses GenComm conference In May, our Director David Butler delivered a keynote speech at the closing conference of the GenComm project, which was held at Belfast Met’s E3 campus. The GenComm project has served as a powerful demonstration of the immense potential that hydrogen holds in Northern Ireland’s transition towards sustainable energy. As one of the key clean energy solutions, hydrogen has the capability to decarbonise various sectors, and its versatility and environmental benefits make it an essential component of Europe’s efforts to combat climate change.

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Evolve Year Review 2023

First ever biomethane injection to grid on island of Ireland marks historic milestone In a landmark moment for the decarbonisation of energy, the first ever direct-to-grid injection on the island of Ireland of biomethane, a fully renewable energy source, took place in Dungannon, Co. Tyrone, right in the heart of the Evolve network.

This ground-breaking milestone puts Evolve firmly at the forefront of the movement toward decarbonisation not just for Northern Ireland, but for the energy industry as a whole.

Click here to read more or click on the video below to watch full highlights from the launch event in Dungannon.

“

from theoretical discussions to a concrete

“

demonstration of the pivotal role gas networks in

could be really beneficial on that journey. The

Northern Ireland are set to play. This development

ability to replace imported fossil fuels with

underscores the commitment to offering

locally-produced biomethane could help us

consumers access to a decarbonised energy

deal with security of supply issues, but also

source, all while minimising the necessity for

help consumers decarbonise their lifestyles

substantial costs and upheaval—a crucial aspect

without having to make major changes to the

in the collective pursuit of a Just Transition.

way they heat their homes.

The direct injection of biomethane into the

Consumers consistently tell us that they want

Evolve grid represents a tangible transition

“

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them decarbonise their lifestyles and this

“

John French Chief Executive Utility Regulator

simple, affordable and secure means to help

Peter McClenaghan Director of Infrastructure & Sustainability Consumer Council NI Evolve Year Review 2023

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Evolve Year Review 2023

Evolve hosts Carbon Monoxide Workshop in support of Gas Safety Week 2023 Evolve pledged its support for Gas Safety Week (11th – 17th September 2023) through the hosting of an informative Carbon Monoxide Workshop in one of the gas network operator’s key towns.

The event, entitled ‘Safeguarding your clients from Carbon Monoxide risks’, took place at The Junction Conference Centre in Dungannon on 7th September, and featured speakers from Evolve, Gas Safe Charity, Kier, and the Consumer Council. Click the image to read on.

Find out what some of our local customers had to say about their switch to gas “I had been using oil beforehand, and it just wasn’t working for me.

Two of my sisters already use gas and they both recommended it, so I decided to give it a try and was pleasantly surprised with the process. I couldn’t be happier with the results.”

Colm Carters Enniskillen Page 7

“The benefits of gas are just amazing. The convenience alone is worth it. I can now control the heating and hot water with a simple tap on my phone. No more waiting for the immersion heater to heat up the water.”

“Gas is cleaner, more convenient and highly efficient – I can’t recommend it enough.”

Martin McCool Dungannon

Caroline McDaid Strabane

Evolve Year Review 2023

Expansion works Evolve continued to expand its network throughout 2023, including key gas mains laying in Cookstown. We wish to extend our sincere thanks to local residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation during these works. Every possible measure is taken to ensure disruptions are kept to a minimum, and we’re confident the long-term benefits of gas will outweigh any temporary inconvenience. Amid the ever-growing demand for gas connections, we are pleased our network is continuing to reach more households and businesses.

As ever, all the latest and up-to-date information on roadworks in the Evolve network can be found on our website: www.evolvenetwork.co.uk/roadworks

Energy Saving Week Evolve was delighted to once again partner with Energy Saving Trust for #EnergySavingWeek23. The tagline of this year’s campaign was ‘Wee changes, big differences’, with each day of Energy Saving Week following a different theme, from how people can heat their home for less, to quick wins to save money. A series of tried and tested energy saving tips were shared throughout the week on our social channels in support of the campaign.

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Evolve Year Review 2023

Year Review 2023

From everyone here at Evolve, we wish all our stakeholders and communities an enjoyable festive season and a happy new year.