Revolutionizing Gas Distribution with the LIFE 13 Green Gas Network
The LIFE 13 Green Gas Network Project is a groundbreaking initiative developed by Pietro Fiorentini, Terranova, and RetiPiù to minimize gas leaks, reduce CO₂ emissions, and enhance the safety and efficiency of gas distribution networks. By integrating smart grid technology with automated pressure control systems, the project represents a significant step forward in the digital transformation of gas infrastructure.
The Challenge: Managing Gas Leaks and Environmental Impact
Natural gas networks are prone to leaks at pipe junctions, valves, and due to accidental damage (e.g., excavation work). These leaks are directly linked to the pressure levels maintained within the distribution network. While natural gas is the cleanest-burning fossil fuel, unburned methane released into the atmosphere is significantly more harmful than CO₂, making leak prevention critical for environmental protection and sustainability.
Innovative Smart Gas Grid Technology
To address these challenges, the LIFE 13 project developed an advanced gas pressure monitoring and control system, consisting of:
- A physical device that detects pressure fluctuations in the gas network.
- A cloud-based software platform that enables remote monitoring and dynamic pressure regulation.
- Automated modulation of gas pressure, reducing methane leaks while maintaining service quality.
This smart grid digitalization aligns with ARERA (Italian Regulatory Authority for Energy, Networks, and Environment) directives, which emphasize energy efficiency, reduced emissions, and network optimization.
Recognized for Climate Change Innovation
The LIFE 13 Green Gas Network Project was selected as a finalist in the Climate Change category of the 2019 LIFE Awards, a European Union initiative recognizing excellence in climate and environmental protection projects.
Smart Gas Grid Benefits: Balancing Technology, Safety, and Sustainability
The integration of smart gas grid technology into the distribution network delivers multiple benefits:
- Lower CO₂ Emissions – Automated pressure control prevents methane leaks, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Enhanced Safety – Real-time monitoring and remote adjustments improve network reliability and safety for end users.
- Smart City Integration – Digitalization of gas infrastructure supports sustainable urban development.
- Regulatory Compliance – Meets stringent ARERA energy efficiency and emission reduction guidelines.
Pioneering the Future of Smart Gas Networks
The success of LIFE 13 paves the way for more advanced gas network automation, including:
- Real-time monitoring of odorization levels to ensure gas safety.
- Enhanced cathodic protection to prevent pipeline corrosion.
- Advanced predictive analytics for proactive network maintenance.
The large-scale adoption of this system will lead to widespread environmental benefits, ensuring gas network sustainability without compromising safety or efficiency.
Industry Leaders Driving the LIFE 13 Project
Terranova: Digital Solutions for Energy & Utilities
Since 2001, Terranova has been a leader in energy and utility digitalization, supporting over 300 companies worldwide with smart grid software solutions. As part of the Pietro Fiorentini Group, Terranova develops cutting-edge gas and electricity distribution, smart city, and IoT-based network management solutions.
Learn more: www.terranovasoftware.eu
RetiPiù: Advancing Smart Gas Distribution
RetiPiù S.r.l. manages over 286,000 natural gas distribution points (PDRs) and 25,000 electricity distribution points (PODs), ensuring high efficiency and safety. The company is at the forefront of public lighting, energy efficiency, and smart city solutions, with a strong commitment to sustainability and digital transformation.
Discover more: RetiPiù Official Website
