Certified Provider
Fully Accredited & Committed to Safety
Every gas connection we deliver meets the highest industry standards. Worker safety, public safety, environmental responsibility, and project compliance from planning to sign-off.
Understanding the choice between connecting via the Gas Distribution Network or an Independent Gas Transporter. We assess both options and advise on the best route for your scheme.
The two routes to gas connection for your development. Here is what each one means in practice.
The Gas Distribution Network route is the standard connection route for most developments in Great Britain. The GDN is a licensed monopoly responsible for operating the gas distribution infrastructure in its licensed area. For residential developments below 73,200 kWh per annum per property, the GDN Domestic Load Connection Allowance provides a subsidy that typically covers the first 10 metres of new mains. The GDN sets out its charges in a connection offer, which includes both non-contestable (GDN-only) and contestable (open-market) elements. The GDN route is subject to full Ofgem regulation, providing a well-established framework for charges, programme, and consumer protection.
An Independent Gas Transporter builds and owns a private gas network within the development, connecting it to the national transmission system or to an existing GDN main at an agreed Point of Connection. The IGT invests in the infrastructure upfront and recoups its investment through long-term transportation revenue from gas suppliers serving properties on the network. For developers, the IGT route can mean lower or zero upfront connection charges in exchange for the IGT's right to collect transportation fees from future occupiers. IGTs are licensed by Ofgem but operate under a different regulatory framework from the GDNs, with some differences in consumer protection and supplier choice.
The principal differences between the GDN and IGT routes come down to: network ownership (GDN is a national licensed network; IGT is a private on-site network), charges to customers (GDN charges are Ofgem regulated; IGT charges are commercial with Ofgem oversight), developer cost (GDN charges a connection fee; IGT may fund the infrastructure), programme (GDN follows standard timelines of 8 to 20 weeks; IGT may be faster on large schemes), consumer protection (GDN is fully within the Ofgem framework; IGT is licensed but with some differences), and supplier choice (all suppliers serve GDN networks; not all suppliers serve every IGT network).
The IGT route is most likely to be advantageous on developments of 50 or more plots, remote or greenfield sites where the nearest GDN main requires a long and expensive extension, mixed-use schemes where the GDN charges for commercial loads are particularly high, and programme-critical projects where the GDN's standard timelines cannot be met. USP assesses the IGT option for every major enquiry. We are not tied to any IGT operator and will always recommend the route that best serves the project and its future occupiers.
The key differences between the Gas Distribution Network and Independent Gas Transporter routes.
Independent route assessment and end-to-end delivery for whichever route is right for your project.
Every gas connection we deliver meets the highest industry standards. Worker safety, public safety, environmental responsibility, and project compliance from planning to sign-off.
50 Google Reviews
I contacted USP and within minutes had a chat with Justin who described exactly how the job would be done and provided a comprehensive quote including labour and materials and was able to start the work in just 7 days. Justin and his team were brilliant and did an amazing job. I can highly recommend USP.
Jack and Joel were absolutely amazing this morning and really put themselves out to dig a hole without having to dig another hole in my drive. More work for them but one happy customer.
From the initial quote through to work completion, Justin and his work partner were a mix of professional, knowledgeable, good-humoured, and clear in all explained (I felt an instant ease to agree to the work). The work itself was excellent and they left the place immaculate!
George and Jack come out today to move a gas meter. It wasn't a straightforward job, but they both took time to talk me through what they were doing and what the next steps are. Very friendly and polite and thought about the needs of our family.
Jack and George are great.
Bang on time, completed the work perfectly, no issues. Left the meter really neatly finished. Jack and Joel were very courteous and did a great job.
George and Jack turned up and did a first class job, very friendly and professional. Great job lads.
Jack and Joel were brilliant. Very polite, worked to my highest expectations. Left the area as clean and tidy, as was possible. And explained every step of the process to me, answering any questions I had.
Fantastic work from Jack and Johl.
Tell us about your project and we will provide a free, independent assessment of both the GDN and IGT options within 24 hours.
Prefer to talk? Call 024 7542 6505 for immediate service.