Ofgem visits SGN’s Paisley depot

The team from Ofgem learned more about the improvements SGN have made to how they engage with stakeholders and customers when upgrading the gas network.

Tess Hall, Ofgem senior manager in the RIIO GD cost analysis team, said: “Ofgem is tasked with setting the cost allowances for the next price control and as part of our work for this we are visiting each gas distribution network to get a feel for the day-to-day operations. This scope includes reviewing the key challenges, risks and opportunities for innovation.”

Engineering manager operations Scot Dougall added: “We tailor every project to the local community in which we’re working. All our planned upgrade projects are put through this process which determines the project’s impact on the community and how we should communicate with residents, stakeholders and commuters affected by our work.”

Stakeholder manager Margaret Hamilton was on hand to explain more about SGN’s simple safety device that can save lives, its locking cooker valve. She explained: “Our locking cooker valve helps people, such as those with Alzheimer’s or autism, retain their independence at home.

“Our engineers fit the small device to existing gas cooker pipework. When the valve is locked, the gas supply to the cooker is stopped. This eliminates the risk of the cooker being unintentionally turned on or left on, providing reassurance to family, friends and carers.”

Visitors then completed their visit with demonstrations of some of SGN’s latest technology from innovation delivery manager Ryan Smith.

He said: “There really is lots to be excited about in innovation at SGN. Among other things, we showed how we’re using robotics, camera inspection and keyhole excavations to be more efficient and lessen the impact of our work on local communities. This was a great opportunity to show our visitors from Ofgem just how increasingly vital innovation is to our industry.”

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