Question to the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy:

To ask the Secretary of State for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, what estimate she has made of the level of funding required to decarbonise gas distribution networks in Scotland.

Support for innovation remains an important part of accelerating decarbonisation. We announced our intention in 2017 to spend £60 million supporting innovative, low carbon energy infrastructure solutions across Scotland – including battery storage, sustainable heating systems and low emissions transport.

Alongside this, Ofgem have funds available to encourage gas distribution networks innovation. One example is the Gas Network Innovation Competition. It provides an opportunity for gas network companies to compete for funding for the development and demonstration of new technologies, operating and commercial arrangements. Up to £20 million per annum is available through the Gas Network Innovation Competition.