Arnhem and Groningen, The Netherlands --- (METERING.COM) --- July 2, 2009 - An agreement has been reached between KEMA and the European gas infrastructure company Gasunie under which KEMA will integrate Gasunie’s engineering and technology division (GET), which consists of approximately 90 people, into its existing gas activities.

This will result in a new business unit focused on gas consultancy, engineering services and research and development for the national and international energy sectors. The takeover lays a strong foundation for an international “Center of Excellence” in gas expertise, and marks the beginning of a strategic collaboration between KEMA and Gasunie, the companies said in a statement.

According to the statement the global gas markets are in a state flux. Continuing liberalization and changing regulations have led to increasing need for strategic, business/economic and technical expertise in the field of gas. At the same time, energy companies must meet more stringent requirements for gas processing, transport and use to ensure a safe, reliable, sustainable and economic gas supply. Electricity and gas are also rapidly becoming more closely interrelated in connection with issues like sustainable energy, smart grids, consumption reduction and energy storage. These developments demand a joining of forces in the areas of advisement and research and development.

“We are extremely pleased to have reached this agreement with Gasunie,” commented KEMA Executive Board member Thijs Aarten. “Our consolidation of gas and electricity expertise is a proactive step in anticipating the developments in the global energy markets. This new combination is also an important step for the Netherlands, a country considered an authority in the field of energy.”

“In order to continue making significant contributions in the future, broader utilization of the know-how and experience acquired by GET is essential. We are convinced that combining our activities with those of KEMA, and joining its extensive international network is the best way to do this,” added Pieter Trienekens, member of the Executive Board of Gasunie.