The project aims to review and assess the adequacy of current electricity security of supply standards and regulations in light of the UK’s evolving energy landscape. As demand for electricity is expected to grow substantially due to the decarbonisation of heat, transport, and industry, the project seeks to understand whether existing standards and regulations remain fit for purpose in ensuring reliable and resilient electricity supply. By identifying gaps, analysing future needs, and developing recommendations, the project will provide an evidence-based foundation for shaping future standards and regulations that balance security and decarbonisation goals.

Benefits

This project will not result in a direct benefit as at this discovery stage it is seeking to develop options for further consideration rather than to provide solutions.

Independent Electricity Engineering Standards Review (BEIS 2020)[1]  identified that standards as currently framed will cost customers money as we move forward through the energy transition. There is a potential saving in the range of £2-6bn per annum that could partly be realised once supply security standards fully recognise the potential of changes in the energy system.

This is initial research project will guide future benefits. These are anticipated to include facilitating a faster transition to net zero.

An analysis of electricity system flexibility for Great Britain[2] by Carbon Trust and Imperial College in 2016 on behalf of the government gave a range of cumulative distribution capex saving between £8 and £13 billion.  To realise these savings, security standards need to reflect the benefits of smart grid technology.