Regasification plants look to the future to become multimolecule plants
Jun 20, 2024
Proactive
When we talk about metrology in the gas system, we refer to the set of methods and tools used to accurately measure the quantity and quality of the gas that is received, transported and consumed at all points in the system.
In other words, from the arrival of natural gas or LNG through to its delivery to transmission companies, distributors or end customers. This includes the use of devices such as flow meters and gas analysers to ensure that measurements are accurate and reliable.
Metrology is essential to ensure proper measurement, safety and regulatory compliance. It also ensures that measurement data are consistent and internationally comparable.
Metrology is essential to ensure proper measurement, safety and regulatory compliance
Measurement data are a key factor in reducing shrinkage and thus minimising financial risk. In other words, metrology helps minimise the difference between the amount of gas received at the entry point and the amount delivered at the exit points.
Since 1987, Enagás has had a Metrology and Innovation Centre (MIC) in Zaragoza, whose main objectives are to provide metrological services for the proper measurement of energy, offer innovative services to achieve carbon neutrality and facilitate the integration of renewable gases into the gas system.
Since 1987, Enagás has had a Metrology and Innovation Centre (MIC) in Zaragoza
The measurement of natural gas is carried out using equipment that is certified and metrologically approved by prestigious independent bodies. The calculation is based on current international standards.
In the case of Enagás, the measurement processes are certified in accordance with ISO 9001, which guarantees continuous improvement, standardisation, process traceability and communication mechanisms. Similarly, the laboratories of our Metrology and Innovation Centre are accredited by the Spanish National Accreditation Body (ENAC), in accordance with the UNE-EN ISO/IEC 17025 Standard for the performance of all its calibration activities.
To serve the future hydrogen network and its entire value chain, Enagás is promoting initiatives to transform and expand the functions of its Metrology and Innovation Centre (MIC).
Specifically, the company is focusing on adapting its gas analysis and quality laboratory to make it fully compatible with hydrogen, a key energy carrier for achieving carbon neutrality targets. The aim is to enable a chain of traceability in the measurement of renewable hydrogen.
Through the HYLOOP+ project the construction of a new hydrogen calibration laboratory is planned for mid-2025
Through the HYLOOP+ project, which Enagás is developing in partnership with the German National Metrology Institute and which is a pioneer in its field in Europe, the construction of a new hydrogen calibration laboratory is planned for mid-2025. It will allow calibration and adjustment of all types of flowmeters ─measuring instruments─ installed at inlet and outlet stations of the future hydrogen network.
This technology centre will be available to serve all players in the hydrogen value chain and will contribute to boosting the deployment of renewable gases and in particular hydrogen as a technological solution.
With its start-up, Spain and Enagás will have a benchmark metrological centre on a par with the main centres in Europe. Furthermore, by promoting this type of project, the energy infrastructure company is expanding its technical capabilities to act as interim manager of the hydrogen backbone and become a benchmark hydrogen network operator in Europe.