Brexit Update: November 2020

Gas Networks Ireland (GNI) remains satisfied that there will be no adverse impact on natural gas flows due to the end of the Brexit transition period on 31 December 2020, including in the event of no future partnership agreement being put in place by 31 December.  We anticipate no disruption to the daily importation of natural gas from Great Britain to Ireland from January 2021, even in the absence of a future partnership agreement.  This follows extensive engagement over a sustained period with relevant stakeholders including other natural gas pipeline operators and energy regulators in the UK and Ireland, as well as EU stakeholders.

Ireland and the UK have successfully operated in a highly connected and interdependent energy system since the early 1990s.  Given the interconnected nature of the markets, all relevant parties remain strongly committed to the continued successful operation of the natural gas interconnectors and are committed to ensuring that natural gas will continue to flow using existing infrastructure from Great Britain to Ireland – regardless of the outcome of the Brexit process.

While there will be no import/export tariffs on natural gas, it is expected there will be an administrative requirement for both importing shippers and Gas Networks Ireland to submit customs declarations on natural gas imports from Great Britain irrespective of whether a trade agreement is reached.

Gas Networks Ireland remains committed to continuing our strong relationships with our stakeholders to ensure that there will be minimal, if any, negative impact on all our natural gas customers as a result of the end of the Brexit transition period.