For businesses in the UK looking to establish a new gas supply, whether for a new build, a relocation, or an expansion, understanding the process of getting connected to the gas mains is crucial. Navigating through the steps of obtaining a new gas connection can be complex, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a smooth process. This article will guide you through the essentials of obtaining a new commercial gas supply.
Step 1: Contacting Your Distribution Network Operator (DNO)
- Identify Your Local DNO: The first step in setting up a new gas connection is to identify and contact your local Distribution Network Operator (DNO). DNOs are responsible for the infrastructure that delivers gas to your premises. The specific DNO for your area depends on your location.
- Understanding the Role of the DNO: It’s important to note that DNOs manage and maintain the gas pipes but do not supply the gas itself. Their role is crucial in ensuring that the physical infrastructure required for your gas supply is in place and functioning.
Step 2: Requesting a New Connection
- Get in Touch with the DNO: Once you have identified your local DNO, you need to get in touch with them to start the process of setting up a new gas connection. This can typically be done via their website or customer service hotline.
- Provide Necessary Information: When requesting a new connection, you will need to provide specific information about your premises, such as the address, the type of property, and your anticipated gas usage. This helps the DNO to determine the scope of work required to establish the connection.
Step 3: Receiving and Accepting a Quote for Business Gas
- Obtaining a Quote: The DNO will assess your request and provide you with a quote for the new connection. This quote includes the cost of the work required to connect your property to the gas network.
- Reviewing the Quote: Carefully review the details of the quote. It should itemize the costs involved, including any necessary work on the gas pipes and infrastructure.
Step 4: Coordinating the Connection Work
- Scheduling the Work: If you accept the quote, the DNO will schedule the work to establish the new gas connection. This might involve laying new gas pipes and installing associated infrastructure.
- Ensuring Access and Safety: Ensure that the DNO has access to your property to carry out the necessary work. It’s also important to adhere to any safety guidelines provided during the installation process.
Step 5: Choosing an Energy Supplier
- Selecting an Energy Supplier: While the DNO handles the physical connection, you need to choose an energy supplier to provide the gas. Research different suppliers to compare their rates, terms, and customer service.
- Setting Up Your Account: Once you’ve chosen a supplier, set up an account with them. They will coordinate with the DNO to ensure your gas supply is activated once the connection is complete.
Step 6: Finalizing the Connection
- Meter Installation: The final step in establishing your new gas connection is the installation of a gas meter. This is typically handled by the energy supplier or a designated third party.
- Activation of Gas Supply: After the meter is installed and all connections are verified to be safe and compliant, your gas supply can be activated.
- Safety Checks: Conduct safety checks to ensure everything is functioning correctly. This may involve having a Gas Safe registered engineer inspect your gas appliances and connections.
Additional Considerations
- Timeframe: The entire process from requesting a connection to getting your gas supply activated can take several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the work involved.
- Legal and Safety Compliance: Ensure all work complies with local regulations and safety standards, particularly if the connection involves extensive work on your property.
- Cost Implications: Be prepared for the costs involved in establishing a new gas connection, including the DNO’s charges and any additional fees from your chosen gas supplier.
Choosing the right location for your Gas Meter
Ensure compliance with safety regulations when determining the meter’s location. Unsuitable locations include near heat sources, internal walls, boiler rooms, wet rooms, under stairs, areas with extreme temperatures, within 15 cm of an electric meter, wet floors, rooms storing food, and spaces with corrosive substances.
Consider the maximum demand of gas, measured in kilowatts (kW). Calculate the peak demand by summing the maximum kilowatt usage or input rating of each gas appliance. To ensure accuracy, consult with Niccolo, who can guide you to a Gas Safe engineer or a consultant affiliated with a device manufacturer.
Businesses often locate their gas supply infrastructure in areas that offer a strategic balance between logistical convenience, proximity to existing gas infrastructure, and alignment with regulatory and environmental considerations. Proximity to existing gas pipelines or distribution networks is a common factor, as it reduces transportation costs and enhances the reliability of the supply. Regions with well-established energy infrastructure and access to major transportation routes, such as highways or ports, are often preferred to streamline the transportation of gas resources and ensure efficient distribution.
Ensure The Meter Location Is Safe And Meets Regulations.
There are certain locations when fitting a new gas meter that is not suitable. These include:
- Near heat sources or sparks.
- On internal walls of properties.
- Boiler rooms.
- Wet rooms or bathrooms.
- Under stairs.
- Close to very high or very low temperatures.
- Under 15 cm away from an electric meter.
- Wet floors.
- Any rooms food is stored.
- Rooms where corrosive substances could have an impact.
How much does a new gas connection cost?
The cost of a new gas connection in the UK can vary depending on several factors, including the distance from the gas mains, the complexity of the installation, and the specific requirements of the project. Gas connection costs are typically provided by the local gas distribution network operator (GNO) or utility company responsible for the area.
In the UK, the costs associated with a new gas connection are divided into different components, including the following:
- Connection Charge: This is a one-time fee to cover the cost of physically connecting your property to the gas mains.
- Meter Installation: You may need to pay for the installation of a gas meter at your property. The cost can vary depending on the type of meter required.
- Infrastructure Costs: If there is no existing gas infrastructure in your area, additional costs may be incurred to extend the gas network to your location.
- Service Pipe Installation: The service pipe connects your property to the gas mains. You may be responsible for the cost of installing this pipe.
- Any Necessary Permissions: Depending on the local regulations and the specifics of your project, you may need to obtain certain permissions, and associated costs could be involved.
Here is an average cost breakdown:
| Gas installation cost | Average cost |
| Install new gas connection to mains supply | £1,000 |
| Cap a gas pipe | £500 |
| Install new gas central heating system (excluding labour) | £4,600 |
| Gas engineer hourly rate | £30-£100 |