DANA: A command-and-control system for the Italgas networks

The digital transformation of assets and processes is the technical precondition for enabling the gas distribution networks to be able to accommodate and manage renewable gases, such as biomethane and green hydrogen, expected to grow rapidly in the coming years in line with the objectives set by the EU in the REPowerEU.

A path of transformation that is crucial to enable DSOs to play a strategic role in the energy transition to the net zero economy and which sees Italgas among the most advanced companies. In fact, the Italian player is preparing to be the first gas utility in the world with a fully digitalised network as early as next year. At the heart of this transformation is DANA.

DANA (Digital Advanced Network Automation) is a new digital solution developed by the Italgas Group's Digital Factory. It is a command-and-control system with cutting-edge functions applied to digital gas distribution networks.

In fact, DANA makes it possible to remotely manage relevant events occurring on the network, 'interrogate' it and check its status. It incorporates a cartographic system which allows detailed analysis even of individual network segments (characterised by different colours for immediate visualisation), effectively improving an increasingly in-depth and overall knowledge of networks.

Using an HMI (Human Machine Interface), DANA provides a detailed view of the plant element, allowing a punctual check of its functioning. Specifically, it is possible to: visualise information on the various network components in real time; check the composition of the distribution system and the status of a digital signal or remote control; remotely give instructions to the infrastructure, such as setting a certain concentration level of odorizer (the additive that by law is added to natural gas to make it perceptible to the sense of smell); acquire a series of parameters and vary those responsible for the functioning of the network to adapt its structure to the needs of the moment; remotely manage any anomalies in total safety.

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The functionalities of DANA find expression in an evolution taxonomy structured on three levels: digitalization (with the transmission of data and information from objects in the field to a central system); remotisation (with remote interventions activated by buttons through human intervention) and automation (with automatic actions on field elements thanks to decisions based on algorithms and operating logic).

DANA started operating in January 2022 on the Pozzuolo Martesana (MI) distribution network, which is now the first natural gas distribution network in the world to be managed entirely remotely. Italgas plans to gradually extend the use of DANA to all the networks managed by the Group.

DANA is a proprietary software, currently unique worldwide, which Italgas created and implemented as part of the digital transformation plan which, starting in 2017, involved assets, processes and people. Thanks to this system, in 2023 Italgas will be the first gas utility in the world with a fully digitised network.

About ITALGAS

Italgas is the leading Italian operator in gas distribution and the third in Europe. The DSO manages a distribution network that covers a total of more than 82,000 kilometres serving 8.3 million customers, and holding 2,039 concessions in Italy and Greece. It is also active in the energy efficiency, IT and water sectors.