Gas Quality
Ofgem is responsible for the Gas (Calculation of Thermal Energy) Regulations, which stipulate requirements for companies to ensure that volumetric gas meter readings are accurately converted into energy bills.
Natural gas is composed of a number of different hydrocarbon gases and also contains non-hydrocarbon gases and contaminants. Gas quality specifications define mixtures of gases that can be transported and conveyed to consumers.
Gas quality is very important because gas appliances are unable to safely and efficiently consume gases that do not meet the relevant specifications. Gases from different regions, e.g. Liquefied Natural Gas and European gases often have different specifications to those in GB and require treatment before they can be accepted into the transportation system.
Shrinkage
Shrinkage is a term used to describe gas either consumed within or lost from a transporter’s system. e.g. Shrinkage can result from gas transmission companies using gas within their transportation systems to fuel gas compressors. Gas leaks from distribution mains are vented by certain types of equipment and shrinkage also occurs when gas is stolen or not charged for in error.