Skip to main content
HOMEPAGE ADVERTS
HOMEPAGE ADVERTS
News
28 Sep 20231 minute read

National Grid plans grid balancing measures for winter

ECAtoday
National Grid plans grid balancing measures for winter

National Grid ESO has said that it expects sufficient energy supplies to meet winter demand this year, with its Demand Flexibility Service playing a crucial role in bolstering grid resilience and preventing price surges. 

National Grid's latest annual Winter Outlook report has forecast higher energy supply margins this winter, owing to improved European gas storage and increased nuclear power imports from France. Despite this, the company remains cautious and prepared for various contingencies.

The Demand Flexibility Service, reintroduced this winter, incentivises domestic, industrial, and commercial energy users to shift consumption away from peak periods. National Grid ESO intends to expand this service, conducting a dozen incentivized test events and potential live applications. Participants will receive a guaranteed acceptance price of £3 per kWh for at least six test events starting in January 2024.

Last year, this service saved over 3,300MWh of energy during 12 such events, equivalent to powering almost 10 million homes. Furthermore, it reduces emissions and costs by decreasing the need to activate expensive fossil fuel power plants during periods of high demand and low renewable energy generation. 

Craig Dyke, head of national control at National Grid ESO, said to BusinessGreen, "To support our preparations, we have chosen to reintroduce the Demand Flexibility Service for this winter, following the impressive response from consumers and businesses to act as virtual power plants. 

"Following regulatory approval, we will be publishing more details on how households and businesses can get involved and participate in the service this year."

ECA works closely with its Members, industry partners and Government to help Britain transition to Net Zero Carbon. We produce regular guidance notes, technical bulletins, and industry updates to keep Members at the forefront of the Net Zero transition. Learn more here.

ECAtoday

ECAtoday

Are you up to date with ECAtoday?

ECAtoday is the official online magazine of ECA and reaches thousands of people within the electrotechnical and engineering services industry.