What does it mean for me?
The transition to renewable gas will eventually be for all gas users, but what will it actually mean for you?
We have already met with many communities about the change to renewable gas and have had very positive feedback. But there are always questions, so below are the common things people want to know more about.
You don’t need to do anything.
That’s right – nothing! Biomethane is directly interchangeable with natural gas. Your current gas appliances will continue to work as reliably as they do today.
For renewable gas blends of up to 20% renewable hydrogen by volume, everything will just work too. No new appliances. No upgrade to your connection. We’re doing all the heavy lifting to get it to your doorstep.
Once the blend of hydrogen goes over 20% some changes to appliances may be required. Appliances manufacturers are already working on making appliances ‘hydrogen ready’ so the changeover process should be manageable. Go to our FAQ page to find more information about what renewable gas means for appliances.
The ultimate mix of renewable gases supplied to your region, and the timing of the supply will vary depending on state and territory you are located in, the natural resources in that area, the size of your network and the Government policy facilitating the market. Ultimately, regardless of the type of renewable gas, we are aiming to deliver 100% renewable gas in line with Australia’s net zero targets.
We will be sure to let you know when changes to your gas supply are occurring.
What about costs?
Renewable gas currently costs more to produce than natural gas. We are conscious of making renewable energy as affordable as possible to all Australians, and are working with Governments and business to increase scale and production, develop supply chains and improve technology to decrease the cost of renewable gas. This is similar to other technologies such as renewable electricity and solar panels.
Where can I buy renewable gas?
Renewable gas is not available for direct purchase by consumers in the retail market.
Gas distributors are working to introduce a mix of renewable gas into the network in different areas around Australia with a view to increasing the percentage blend overtime.
It’s safe
We have been safely delivering natural gas for decades and are continuing the trend with renewable gases. Safety is our top priority, we have done our research, and we have already delivered blends of renewable gas to the community.
We’re also not doing this alone – we’re learning from projects around the world. Similar international projects have shown that appliances work safely and reliably at blends of up to 20% hydrogen.
What does renewable gas mean for my existing gas appliances?
Biomethane is directly interchangeable with natural gas. Your current gas appliances will continue to work as reliably as they do today.
While existing home appliances will work safely, reliably and effectively with up to 20% hydrogen blends, appliance manufacturers are already working on hydrogen-ready appliances that can easily transition from natural gas to hydrogen. Japan, the UK, the Netherlands and Australia, to name a few, all have 100% hydrogen appliance demonstrations in progress, the Netherlands have connected a dozen homes to a hydrogen network and replaced their natural gas boilers with ones running on hydrogen.