The Energy Networks Association’s (ENA) has marked five years of its Open Networks programme with the launch of a new online hub.
Open Networks brings together network companies, Ofgem, UK Government and others in the energy industry to explore how to deliver a smarter, more flexible energy system.
Since 2017, it has delivered more than 350 different products such as tools, reports, methodologies and frameworks. It has supported the growth of flexibility available to the market for tendering, which has grown from 0.1GW to almost 3GW making it the largest in Europe, according to the ENA.
It has mapped out pathways for Distribution System Operation (DSO), including publishing an implementation plan made up of more than 540 steps. It has launched 14 consultations and worked with dozens of innovation projects to test proposals.
“The last five years has seen the Open Networks programme bring stakeholders together to work collaboratively, create solutions and build a smart grid that will deliver a Net Zero future for all,” said Farina Farrier, head of Open Networks at Energy Networks Association (ENA).
“As we pass the five-year anniversary, we will strive to build on existing successes and go even faster forward to create net zero networks, boosting new flexibility markets, and securing the supply of clean, low-carbon energy.”
The online hub includes industry events, webinars, podcasts and digital activities, as well as case studies that look at previous proposals.
Going forwards, the Open Networks programme is planning to continue to standardise and simplify processes, as well as further developing UK local flexibility markets. Find out more about the 2022 plans for ENA’s Open Networks programme here.
Current± and the ENA are hosting a webinar on the opportunities for industry within a more flexible energy network as the penetration of renewables continues to grow. To find out more and register to be part of the event on Wednesday 13 April 13 2022, click here.
