EIC launches international search for innovations to eradicate water ingress

The Energy Innovation Centre (EIC) is seeking expressions of interest from third party suppliers who may have a solution to preventing water ingress into pits containing below ground utility assets such as regulators, valves, instrumentation and pipework. This is the latest in a series of calls for innovation that the EIC is managing on behalf of its energy network partners.

The problem of water ingress, which has been identified by one UK gas distribution network (GDN), is occurring in pits that are constructed with either concrete or fibreglass. These materials in many cases have been found to be ineffective at preventing water ingress which results in regular flooding and requires engineers to pump out the pits in order to perform routine maintenance and emergency tasks. This can necessitate additional time for maintenance and emergency activities, and increase the risk to operatives and potential asset failure.

The GDN is looking for a permanent repair technique, method or modifications that will completely eradicate the water ingress issue.

Ian Coates, innovation engineer, at EIC, said: “At this stage the GDN is open to considering potential solutions from international firms as well as innovators within the UK. If a suitable solution is found, there is the potential for it to be supported by funding, either for the design, development or a trial with network partners.

“The potential solutions can range from one idea to several innovations that complement each other, we really are open to all ideas and approaches.”

The GDN seeking the solution is responsible for approximately 1,500 district governor pits however this figure does not include the vast amount of smaller service governor pits across the network which may be in excess of 10,000.

“If a suitable solution to the water ingress problem is found then theoretically, it could be in service for decades. Therefore to solve the problem long-term, the cheapest solution may not necessarily be the best option”, added Ian.

To register initial interest and request an Expression of Interest (EOI) form, please call the Energy Innovation Centre on 0151 348 8040 and quote the reference number GDN-15-01.

The deadline for registering initial interest is 5pm on Wednesday 17^th June 2015.