REN adapts equipment for introduction of green hydrogen in the gas transmission network

REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais has embarked on another phase of introducing hydrogen into the Portuguese National Gas Transmission Network (NGTN) by starting to remodel chromatographs, devices that measure the quality of the gas transmitted in the network. All 16 existing chromatographs in the network are expected to be adapted by the end of the year.

This action by REN is crucial to obtaining certification in 2023, allowing for the reception and transmission of up to a maximum of 10% green hydrogen in the NGTN during the initial phase. REN's intervention reflects the company's commitment to adapting the infrastructure of NGTN, REN Armazenagem, and REN Portgás to create the necessary technical conditions for the decarbonisation goals defined by the Portuguese Government.

This operation follows the technical studies initiated in 2022 in the framework of the H2REN Programme. These initial modifications will undergo a period of observation and performance monitoring during the initial phase, using both conventionally tele-transmitted data to Dispatch, as well as remote access. The project is being implemented by the Gas Operation area, with contributions from the Renewable-Gas Planning, Engineering and Innovation, and Global Technical Management areas of the Portuguese National Gas System.

These modified chromatographs will also significantly reduce the consumption of Helium in their analysis by adding Argon, as Helium is a very rare, non-renewable gas essential for scientific research and also used in technologies such as nuclear magnetic resonance and mass spectrometry, as well as in the production of optical fibres and computer chips. Aligned with European Union policies, decarbonising gas infrastructure is one of the strategic objectives of Portuguese energy policy.

On the path to implement this energy transition, REN has been making permanent contributions through the planning and global technical management of the Electricity and Gas Systems in achieving the decarbonisation of these energy systems. REN's strategy for renewable gases is based on two pillars: adapting existing infrastructure to accommodate these gases and developing infrastructure that is 100% dedicated to hydrogen.

REN has been strengthening its commitment to sustainability, having taken on the goal of a 50% reduction in its emissions by 2030 (compared to 2019), achieving carbon neutrality in 2040, ten years earlier than defined by the European Union. The company will continue to promote, support, and develop actions and projects aligned with this objective and the goals defined by domestic energy policy guidelines.

Additionally, the company seeks to have one third of its senior management positions occupied by women by 2030, promote diversity, and ensure that the company's funding comes entirely from green emissions.