The My Electric Avenue (I²EV) project has been conceived by, and will be managed by, a non-DNO to deliver a low carbon solution to benefit customers and the network, creating a blueprint for the interaction of DNOs and third parties. The full bid content is endorsed by Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution, the project's participant DNO, but is written, developed and fronted by EA Technology. The project will deliver essential learning on managing the strain on the distribution network from the anticipated increased uptake of electric vehicles (EVs). I²EV will deliver essential learning and a cost effective solution to DNOs, that reduces network reinforcement need, demonstrates a new project delivery framework by a third party project lead and will support EV market growth.
The I²EV project will explore two innovations:
- Innovation 1 (Commercial): Novel commercial arrangement I²EV will be delivered by a third party innovation technology provider on a risk and reward basis, with the arrangement ensuring that the DNO meets the requirements of the LCN Fund and other obligations
- Innovation 2 (Technical): New Technology trials EA Technology has independently developed a novel monitoring and control solution, 'Esprit' to manage the supply of electricity to EVs connected to distribution networks. The Technology will be trialled on a range of real networks, with real customers and EVs.
The I²EV project will be developed, project managed and delivered by EA Technology as a turnkey innovation technology provider. Focusing on one technical problem and one technical solution, the project will demonstrate how a non-network company can, through a novel commercial arrangement with a supporting DNO, access the LCNF Fund to deliver a low carbon solution.
Objectives
This project will demonstrate how non-DNOs can lead projects in a structured contractual framework to ensure development of adoptable solutions from third party providers, by developing a commercial structure for rapid solution deployment by a third party delivery body.
In order to provide access to the network, a blueprint commercial and operational framework will be developed between a DNO (Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution) and a non-network company (EA Technology). The blueprint will address issues and risks to both the DNO and third party delivery body while ensuring compliance with the relevant regulatory and LCNF governance requirements and obligations.
