Network operator UK Power Networks (UKPN) have launched a new, real-time operational data platform to provide customers with Net Zero energy insights.
The ‘DSO Dashboard’ presents live data on how power is flowing through the network and the type of generation, based on what is listed by Grid Supply Points (GSP). These GSP’s are the points where regional distribution connects to the national grid.
Barry Hatton, director of Asset Management at UKPN said there are more than 170,000 generation points on our electricity network currently, a significant jump from less than 100 a decade ago, “which means the electricity network of today is vastly more complex.
“As we move towards being a Distribution System Operator it is fundamental that we have a very clear picture of exactly what is happening on the network in real time, and make that information available to all.”
UKPN’s new dashboard builds on the foundations laid out by the Energy Data Taskforce the company said, helping to make data more open and available. This will help renewable energy and battery storage developers, by showing where there is already generation and where there is additional capacity available.
Additionally, researchers will be able to use the DSO Dashboard to trial models, benefitting from the real-world data to develop innovative ways of unlocking new capacity on the network.
It is currently in beta’ trial mode showing an area in Kent, but new regions such as London as well as more granular data will be added throughout 2021.
UKPN’s work to transition from a distributed network operator to a distributed system operator was recogonised in SP Group’s Smart Grid Index, as it scooped the top spot. Its monitoring and control, as well as DER integration was recognised as best practice, however it missed out on data analytics recognition.
