Firstgas is working on an important project to upgrade its Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system, which is the ‘nerve centre’ of the pipeline network, providing real-time supervision and control of the transmission network.
The current SCADA system was last updated in 2018 and is now nearing its use by date, so this upgrade is a critical step in ensuring the continued safe, reliable, and efficient operation of New Zealand's extensive gas transmission network.
The Backbone of Gas Transmission
Spanning 2,500 kilometers of high-pressure pipelines, from Wellington in the south to Kauri, north of Whangarei, the network follows the west coast of the North Island and branches out to Napier, Gisborne and the Bay of Plenty. The network includes eight compressor stations, multiple depressurisation (DP) stations, mainline valves, and the First Renewables biogas upgrade facility in Reporoa.
Why this upgrade matters
A reliable SCADA system is essential not only for uninterrupted gas supply but also for supporting New Zealand’s energy transition. Gas provides on-demand energy services and plays a significant role in electricity generation, while the integration of renewable gases like biomethane from First Renewables upgrade facility in Reporoa, helps reduce carbon emissions.
A future proof solution
The new SCADA system, known as TX-SCADA, will provide enhanced reliability, operational resilience and adapt to the evolving needs of the business. New technologies, including high tech, control room tools, such as a Keyboard Video Mouse will help streamline workflows and improve system performance.
Despite some challenges, the project is making steady progress, with new technologies being tested and integrated. Firstgas aims to fully transition to the upgraded system by September 2025.
The bigger picture
Keeping our network well maintained, as well as regularly upgrading and improving it, is a big task, which the SCADA upgrade project is a part of. To help us manage this and many other projects and initiatives, we have an Asset Management Plan, which you can find here.