Gas Distribution Network (GDN)
A gas distribution network is the regional pipe system that carries gas to your meter.
What it is
Gas Transporters own and run Gas Distribution Networks (GDNs), which carry gas within specific regions of Britain from the national system to homes and businesses. Which GDN serves you depends on where your premises are, not on who your supplier is.
The network owns the pipes. Your supplier sells you the gas, and a meter asset manager looks after the meter.
Where you will see it
- On your gas bill or in quotes, where transportation (network) costs are part of the price.
- On warning signs and emergency notices on the street.
- In paperwork for a new or altered gas connection.
Why it matters
Gas emergencies, such as a smell of gas, go to the national gas emergency line, 0800 111 999, not to your supplier. A new connection, a disconnection or a pipe alteration is arranged with the network, as covered in our guide to new business energy connections.
Some premises, mainly newer developments, are served by an independent gas transporter instead, which connects to a GDN and runs its own local pipes. Either way, your supply point has an MPRN.
Example
A bakery changes gas supplier. The network does not change, the pipes stay the same and the engineer for any repair to the street main is the same company as before. Only the contract and billing change.
Related terms
For electricity, the matching idea is the distribution network operator. Gas transportation costs sit inside the bills discussed in non-commodity charges.
Common questions on this topic
Sources
General information only. Energy prices, rules and supplier terms change; check the latest position with your supplier, Ofgem or the Energy Ombudsman before you act.