REN – Redes Energéticas Nacionais has had all its infrastructure certified for the transport, distribution, and storage of hydrogen-natural gas blends, in line with the decarbonisation targets set by the Portuguese government.
The certification process, carried out by the certifying body Bureau Veritas, confirms that REN is technically equipped to transport hydrogen-natural gas blends of up to 10% in the National Gas Transmission Network (RNTG) and the Carriço Underground Storage (AS Carriço), and up to 20% in the National Gas Distribution Network (RNDG) operated by REN Portgás.
With this certification, the REN Group, as the concessionaire of these public service infrastructures, complies with the provisions of Decree-Law No. 62/2020 of 28 August, the National Gas Transmission Network Regulation (Dispatch No. 806-C/2022), the National Gas Distribution Network Regulation (Dispatch No. 806-B/2022), and the Underground Gas Storage in Natural Salt Formations Regulation (Dispatch No. 1112/2022).
Aligned with European Union policies, decarbonisation of gas infrastructures is one of the strategic objectives of Portuguese energy policy. In its path towards the operationalisation of this energy transition, REN has continuously contributed, as a public service infrastructure operator, through its planning and overall technical management of the Electricity and Gas Systems, to achieving decarbonisation in these energy systems.
REN's strategy for renewable gases is based on two key pillars: adapting existing infrastructure to accommodate these gases and developing 100% hydrogen infrastructure to meet the actual needs of the market.
In May of this year, REN presented its new Strategic Plan for 2024-2027, which aims to strengthen its commitment to sustainability, notably by increasing ESG targets, contributing to the energy transition, while maintaining high standards of supply security and quality.