On 8 July 2025, Steve Fraser, CEO of Cadent, and Laurence Poirier-Dietz, CEO of GRDF, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Royal Institution, in London. This agreement sets out a framework for two of the major gas distribution system operators in Europe to co-operate and exchange information, with the aim of building a more decarbonised and resilient energy system, whilst ensuring a fair and affordable energy transition, at the heart of each country and their local communities.
This MoU promotes the sharing of good practices and innovation, in order to make the design and operation of networks smarter, to implement cost effective and ecologically efficient gas solutions and to reduce fugitive emissions, while integrating renewable and low-carbon gases (biomethane, synthetic methane, and hydrogen) into their networks today and in the future.
Through this MoU, Cadent and GRDF intend to provide the entire energy system with all the flexibility and reliability of gas infrastructures, to accelerate the deployment of renewable energies (electric and thermal), contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions from their operations, as well as the carbon footprint of organisations, their partners, the supply chain and ultimately their customers.
Steve Fraser, CEO of Cadent said:
This is a historical collaboration between two like-minded companies, with the same objectives to use innovation for a flexible gas network, that need to deliver renewable gases at low cost to the customer.
As part of our strategy to stay at the forefront of the energy transition, we are actively engaging with system operators across Europe to share insights, learn from diverse experiences, and co-develop more efficient and resilient gas networks for the future.
Laurence Poirier-Dietz, CEO of GRDF said:
On both sides of the Channel, two major players of gas distribution networks share the same objectives to accelerate the development of renewable gas and optimise our network operations. We are delighted to start sharing our mutual experience and knowledge through this agreement with Cadent.
Both system operators face similar objectives, in an evolving gas industry, to ensure the safety and resilience of the whole energy system whilst reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making the transition to net zero in the best and most affordable way for their customers.
It is believed that with this bilateral agreement in place, innovation, experience and knowledge can only improve each organisation’s operations, offering all the flexibility and resilience necessary to accelerate the deployment of renewable energy.
ENDS
**Steve Fraser, Cadent’s CEO signing the MoU with Laurence Poirier-Dietz, CEO of GRDF.
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About GRDF
As the main gas distribution system operator (DSO) in France, GRDF distributes gas every day to more than 11 million customers for heating, cooking, industries and transport, regardless of their supplier. To this end, in accordance with its public service missions, GRDF designs, builds, operates and maintains the largest distribution network in Europe (207,081 km) in more than 9,500 municipalities, guaranteeing the safety of people and property and the quality of distribution.
Gas is a modern form of energy that is available, economical and increasingly respectful of the environment. With the rise of green gas, a locally produced renewable gas, the gas network is an essential link in the ecological transition. GRDF is a key partner for local authorities, helping them to achieve carbon neutrality through their energy and sustainable mobility policies.
Media contact GRDF:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +33 (0)1 71 19 18 11
Cadent is the UK’s largest gas distribution network with a 200-year legacy. We are in a unique position to build on strong foundations whilst encouraging the curiosity to think differently and the courage to embrace change. Day to day we continue to operate, maintain and innovate the UK’s largest gas network, transporting gas safely and protecting people in an emergency. Our skilled engineers and specialists remain committed to the communities we serve, working day and night to ensure gas reaches 11 million homes from Cumbria to North London and the Welsh Borders to East Anglia, to keep your energy flowing.
Here at Cadent we support the Government’s plans to reach Net Zero by 2050. That means we’re backing the introduction of hydrogen as a low carbon alternative to natural gas for the future. We know people love the controllability of gas and, with our network already in place, it makes sense to switch to the lower carbon alternative offered by hydrogen, which we believe can keep homes and businesses warm for generations to come.
Cadent manages the national gas emergency service free phone line on behalf of the gas industry - 0800 111 999*
Cadent Gas Ltd is owned by a consortium of global investors.
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