Independent gas transporters explained

Independent Gas Transporters (IGTs) are private companies licensed by Ofgem to build, own, and operate local gas pipeline networks in Great Britain. They primarily connect new residential developments and other properties to the wider national gas supply system, operating alongside but distinctly from the larger Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs). Understanding their role, regulatory context, and impact on your gas supply is crucial for UK homeowners. Fuse Energy aims to demystify complex energy topics like IGTs, providing clear information that empowers you with greater understanding and control over your gas supply.

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What are Independent gas transporters?

Defining Independent gas transporters

An Independent Gas Transporter (IGT) is a private company that holds a licence from Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, to construct, own, and manage local gas pipeline networks across Great Britain. These companies are distinct from the larger, traditional Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs) but integrate with them to form the comprehensive system that delivers gas to homes and other properties. IGTs operate under licences granted by Ofgem, ensuring they meet specific safety, performance, and customer service standards.

The primary role of IGTs in the UK gas network

IGTs play a vital role in expanding the UK's gas infrastructure, particularly for new housing estates and other developments. Their primary function is to provide the necessary gas network connections for these new developments, linking them into the existing national gas supply system. This ensures that as new properties are built, they can access a gas supply efficiently. Companies like Indigo Pipelines and GTC UK are active IGTs in the UK.

Independent gas transporter vs gas Distribution network

Key differences in ownership and operation

The fundamental difference between an IGT and a Gas Distribution Network (GDN) lies in their scope and ownership. GDNs are the larger, regional networks that transport gas across vast geographical areas, covering most of Great Britain. They are the established, traditional gas network operators. IGTs, on the other hand, are private companies that build and operate smaller, localised networks, typically serving new developments. While GDNs cover broad regions, IGTs focus on specific sites, connecting them to the nearest GDN point.

How IGTs integrate with GDNs

IGTs do not operate in isolation; they are an integral part of the wider gas supply system. An IGT's network will connect to a GDN at a specific 'exit point'. From this point, the IGT takes responsibility for transporting the gas through its own local pipelines to the end-users within its designated development. This integration ensures a seamless flow of gas from the national transmission system, through the GDN, and finally to individual properties via the IGT network.

The historical context of IGTs

The emergence of IGTs in the UK gas market followed the liberalisation and privatisation of the energy industry. To foster competition and encourage investment in new infrastructure, particularly for connecting new developments, Ofgem introduced the licensing framework for IGTs. This allowed private companies to compete with traditional GDNs in building and operating these local networks, aiming to drive efficiency and innovation in gas connections.

How Independent gas transporters are regulated

Ofgem's role in licensing and oversight

IGTs are subject to stringent regulation by Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator. Ofgem grants the licences that allow IGTs to operate, and these licences come with specific obligations regarding safety, performance, and customer service. This oversight ensures that IGTs maintain high standards and operate reliably, protecting consumers and the integrity of the gas network.

The Uniform network Code (UNC) and IGTs

A key regulatory framework governing the operation of IGTs is the UNC. This industry document sets out the rules for gas transportation in Great Britain, covering everything from network access and capacity allocation to billing and data exchange. IGTs, like GDNs, must adhere to the UNC, ensuring consistency and fair practice across the entire gas transportation system. Ofgem's role includes monitoring IGT charges and ensuring fair competition and consumer protection within the gas transportation market.

Ensuring fair competition and consumer protection

Ofgem actively works to ensure fair competition among gas transporters and protect consumers. This involves monitoring IGT charges, which are passed on to consumers via their energy suppliers, to prevent excessive pricing. The regulatory framework aims to strike a balance between allowing IGTs to recover their investment costs and ensuring that consumers receive a fair deal for their gas supply.

Identifying your gas transporter

Checking your gas bill or meter serial number

Knowing who your gas transporter is can be important for various queries, from new connections to emergency situations. The easiest way to identify your gas transporter is by checking your gas bill. Your energy supplier's bill should clearly state the name of your gas transporter, often alongside your Meter Point Reference Number (MPRN). Alternatively, the meter serial number on your gas meter can sometimes be used to identify your transporter through industry databases.

Using industry databases and online tools

The 'Find My Supplier' tool (findmysupplier.energy) and other online resources can help you identify your gas transporter using your postcode or MPRN. These resources are often maintained by industry bodies or energy suppliers and can provide details about which GDN or IGT serves your property. This is particularly useful for homeowners planning new connections or managing properties.

What to do if you cannot find your transporter

If you're struggling to find out who your gas transporter is, your first point of contact should be your current gas supplier. They have access to the necessary industry data and can tell you which company is responsible for your gas network. In an emergency, such as a gas leak, you should always contact the National Gas Emergency Service (0800 111 999, nationalgas.com/emergency-contacts), regardless of who your transporter is.

Impact of IGTs on your gas supply and bills

Understanding IGT charges and their components

IGT charges are an unavoidable component of your gas bill if your property is connected to an IGT network. These charges cover the costs incurred by the IGT for building, operating, and maintaining their local pipeline infrastructure. They are passed on to your energy supplier, who then includes them in your overall gas bill. Ofgem regulates these charges to ensure they are fair and reflect the actual costs of providing the service. It's important to understand that these charges are part of the network costs, separate from the cost of the gas itself.

How IGTs affect gas connection and maintenance

For new developments, IGTs streamline the gas connection process by providing dedicated infrastructure. This can often lead to quicker connections compared to waiting for a GDN to extend its network. For existing properties on an IGT network, maintenance and emergency response for the local pipelines are the responsibility of the IGT. Your energy supplier will typically act as the first point of contact for any issues, liaising with the IGT on your behalf.

Customer experience and support for IGT-supplied properties

The customer experience for properties supplied by an IGT is largely managed through their energy supplier. While the IGT maintains the physical network, your energy supplier handles billing, customer service queries, and acts as the interface for any network-related issues. Fuse Energy offers 24/7 human customer support to assist with gas supply queries, helping customers navigate their energy landscape regardless of the underlying network operator. This means you have a clear point of contact for any questions about your gas supply.

The future of Independent gas transporters

Growth and expansion of IGT networks

IGTs are expected to continue playing a significant role in the UK's energy landscape, particularly with ongoing housing and other development. As new areas are built, IGTs provide an efficient mechanism for extending the gas network. Their ability to deliver localised infrastructure solutions supports the continuous growth of urban and suburban areas across Great Britain.

Challenges and opportunities in the evolving energy landscape

The UK's energy landscape is evolving, with a growing focus on decarbonisation and renewable energy sources. This presents both challenges and opportunities for IGTs. While the long-term role of natural gas is subject to change, IGTs may adapt by exploring opportunities in transporting low-carbon gases, such as biomethane or hydrogen, as part of a future-proofed energy system. Their agile nature and focus on local networks could position them well to support innovative energy solutions.

By simplifying the intricacies of the UK gas network, Fuse Energy enables customers to make informed decisions and reduces the mental load associated with energy infrastructure. We believe in transparent pricing, 24/7 human customer support, and providing you with the tools to understand your energy usage. Switching to Fuse is straightforward, designed to give you greater control over your home's gas supply.

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