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CELEBRATING SIX YEARS OF CISBOT

SGN IS CELEBRATING six years since
the launch of the pioneering CISBOT
robotic system in the UK, which enables
the network to upgrade live gas mains
from the inside.
Back in 2013, SGN was the first gas
network to implement the Cast Iron
Joint Sealing Robot (CISBOT) in the UK,
having adapted technology developed
by US-based energy research and
development firm ULC Robotics.
On 17 October 2013, SGN
successfully trialled the CISBOT robot
to seal a lead yarn joint on a live gas
main for the first time in Dartford, Kent.
Since then, CISBOT has travelled
through 44 kilometres of gas pipes
and upgraded more than 12,000
joints. The robot has been used to
minimise disruption to motorists
and pedestrians in some of Britain’s THE CISBOT ROBOT IN ACTION
most iconic and traffic-sensitive roads
including in London, Edinburgh and has really revolutionised roadworks. gas distribution companies to roll
along Brighton seafront. Robotic technology reduces the need out this award-winning technology
The network is currently using for multiple excavations and trenches, in other areas. Thanks to Ofgem’s
CISBOT to upgrade ageing pipes in reduces disruption on the roads Network Innovation Allowance, we’ve
Clapham’s Nightingale Lane and in St and saves time and money, which been able to share the success of our
Philip’s Avenue, in Eastbourne. is excellent news for motorists, our pioneering technology with other gas
SGN Head of Innovation John customers and the local community. network companies to allow more
Richardson said: “Using CISBOT “Our project partners ULC Robotics motorists across the UK to benefit
technology over the past six years are now working with the UK’s other from less disruption.”

NGN SCOOPS THREE WINS AT UK CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE AWARDS

NORTHERN GAS NETWORKS (NGN)
has won three awards at the UK
Customer Experience Awards 2019,
recognising its commitment to delivering
outstanding customer service.
The prestigious UK Customer
Experience Awards ceremony
took place during October’s
National Customer Service Week to
acknowledge the UK’s most inspiring
organisations and businesses.
Northern Gas Networks was
shortlisted for six awards at the event
for dedication to its customers, taking NGN CUSTOMER CARE OFFICERS TALK
TO A LOCAL BUSINESS OWNER
home the gold award for Product
or Service Development, silver for which allows NGN to plan gas mains Eileen Brown, Customer Experience
Employees at the Heart of Everything replacement work around customers’ Director at Northern Gas Networks,
and bronze for Use of Insight & home improvements to minimise said: “Delivering truly great customer
Feedback – Customer Satisfaction. disruption. Additionally, the network service continues to be at heart of
The gas distribution network was was lauded for its dedication to everything that we do and we are
praised for its work using insights to continuing to grow a united and immensely proud to have been
improve customer satisfaction and empowered team by fostering a recognised once again at the UK
its innovative driveways project, community-focused culture. Customer Experience Awards.”

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