The end consumer, Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) and Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) are becoming active participants in providing increasing levels of flexibility to the Great Britain (GB) electricity system but there is uncertainty in relation to the roles and responsibilities of the ESO and DSOs in this new smart energy world. This project aims to address those gaps and has the potential to deliver whole systems benefits by creating new flexibility market opportunities for potential service providers. 

Deliverables of the project will include reports on national and international trends, a techno-economic feasibility assessment of the developed ESO/DSO coordination schemes at operational timescales, an impact assessment of the ESO/DSO coordination schemes and a roadmap for the physical deployment of the preferred ESO/DSO coordination scheme. 

Benefits

The energy system is rapidly changing with end consumers, DNO’s and DERs becoming active participants in providing flexibility across the GB electricity system. This project has the potential to deliver whole systems benefits by creating new flexibility market opportunities for potential service providers. 

Enabling efficient access to DERs through streamlined ESO/DSO coordination will deliver:  

• Opportunities for customers to realise value from services and new technology 
• More sustainable energy markets and networks 
• Reduced costs to consumers through more optimised use of services  
• Enhanced security of supply 
• Transition to net zero at the lowest overall cost for customers