Learnings

Outcomes

This project successfully completed its Discovery phase, achieving its primary aim of determining whether decentralised BESS and V2G assets could credibly support electricity system restoration as an additional component of the toolbox available to the System Operator, and whether the concept was sufficiently robust to progress to further innovation research . 
The project demonstrated that distributed storage can technically and operationally contribute to all key restoration stages, including grid‑forming island creation, grid‑following support, and controlled block loading. It established that, with appropriate configurations and governance, these assets could complement existing ESR arrangements and improve restoration flexibility in a decentralised, low‑carbon system. 
 
Key changes achieved include: 
 
A step‑change in system understanding of how distribution‑connected BESS and V2G could be mobilised during restoration, where previously these assets had little or no recognised restoration value. 
A quantified evidence base showing the potential scale, reliability, and limitations of distributed storage contribution under uncertainty. 
Clear identification of the regulatory, operational, and market changes required to unlock this capability. 

While no live operational performance improvements were delivered (consistent with the research scope), the project produced measurable analytical outputs, including: 
 
Quantified technical capability across restoration stages. 
Probabilistic estimates of asset availability under varying state‑of‑charge and demand scenarios. 
Geographically specific modelling results from a DNO case study, demonstrating practical applicability. 
 
In terms of technology readiness, the project progressed the concept from low‑TRL exploratory research to a validated, system‑ready concept (approximately TRL 2–3 to TRL 4), supported by technical assessment, modelling, and stakeholder validation. The modelling tools and strategic blueprint provide a credible foundation for trial deployment in subsequent phases. 

Key learning for future projects includes: 
 
Grid‑forming capability is critical for early restoration stages, while grid‑following assets can add significant value later through stability and block‑load support. 
Regulatory and governance barriers together with technology limitations, are the primary constraint to deployment. 
Distributed, non‑contracted assets can provide resilience value if supported by appropriate emergency control, incentives, and coordination between transmission and distribution. 
 
As a result of this phase, the project has successfully demonstrated readiness to progress beyond NIA research. The outcomes provide sufficient confidence, clarity, and definition to support progression to a Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) Alpha phase. NESO plans to submit a SIF application to further develop, trial, and operationalise the Battery Reserve for Restoration concept, building directly on the evidence, tools, and recommendations delivered 

Lessons Learnt

Early validation through a focused Discovery phase was critical in de‑risking the concept before committing to delivery‑stage innovation. The project showed that technical feasibility alone is insufficient; and that regulatory, operational, and governance considerations must be addressed in parallel. Close and early stakeholder engagement significantly improved the quality and credibility of outcomes, while developing practical modelling tools helped translate theoretical potential into decision‑ready evidence. Future projects should continue to combine technical analysis with policy, market, and operational perspectives from the outset to accelerate progression to implementation.