Decarbonising Operational Fleet & Tools for Gas Network Operations
Cadent Gas Ltd is seeking innovative vehicle, on board power and compatible tool solutions to enable the transition from diesel-powered operational fleet vehicles to low or zero emission alternatives. Solutions must maintain operational capability, meet hazardous environment requirements, and comply with UK legislation, while ensuring no compromise to safety or gas network integrity.
Opportunity
Challenge opens
16/06/2026
Challenge closes
28/07/2026
Benefit
Cadent Gas Ltd is looking to use open innovation to identify new vehicle and tool systems that can safely and effectively replace diesel-powered fleet vehicles used in operational gas network environments. Selected solution(s) will be invited to present to Cadent and may be trialled in pilot deployments, with the possibility of longer-term adoption and commercial rollout across Cadent’s operational fleet.
Background
The Innovation Exchange programme is supporting Cadent Gas Ltd to find innovators who can provide electric or alternative low-emission vehicle platforms capable of powering operational tools in hazardous gas environments while achieving a minimum operational range exceeding 150 miles in addition to supplying energy to power the associated tooling to deliver daily operational commitments.
Daily Operational commitments summary
A standard working day for an engineer responsible for attending gas escapes is underpinned by a quick response, public safety, and highly effective repairs. Each day begins with vehicle checks, equipment inspection, and pre-start safety checks of equipment to ensure full compliance with health & safety policies. Once dispatched, the priority is to reach the reported gas escape promptly and assess the risk to the public, property, and the wider network. Typical distance per journey averages between 10-30 miles and could reoccur twice in a standard working day, or 3-4 times if partaking in shift/ call out work.
On arrival, the engineer secures the site, conducts gas detection and monitoring, and establishes safe working zones. Clear communication with residents, businesses, and emergency services is essential to provide reassurance and safety advice. Where gas readings confirm a leak in the highway, the worker coordinates traffic management and prepares for excavation in the road. Pneumatic drills and breakers are used to identify the location of the gas escape and expose the gas main, typically found 600mm or deeper in the carriageway.
Excavation is carried out carefully to expose the affected main or service pipe while protecting other underground utilities. The escape is repaired using approved techniques to restore network integrity. Throughout the process, continuous gas monitoring ensures the area remains safe.
After repairs, the site is backfilled, reinstated, and left secure. This is often completed by a 3rd party contractor the following day.
This challenge is brought to you by:
