UK Power Networks and NESO dispatch local energy to ease grid constraints

UK Power Networks and the National Energy System Operator (NESO) have completed the first dispatch under their Megawatt Dispatch service, using smaller local energy assets to help manage constraints on the transmission network.

The service allows generators and battery storage connected to local distribution networks to support the wider electricity system. It is the first time these local assets have been dispatched specifically to help manage transmission constraints.

This is an important step for the UK’s transmission infrastructure, with a growing pool of distributed assets available to pull from. Whether it’s residential properties that are leveraging energy storage, or delivery depots with large fleets of electric vehicles – these assets could all become essential to balancing the grid in the future. 

That matters because grid constraints remain one of the main causes of connection delays for new energy projects. UK Power Networks and NESO say the approach could allow some cleaner energy schemes to connect up to 10 years earlier than expected.

The first dispatches were carried out with support from AMP, the first company to join the MW Dispatch Service in the UK Power Networks area. AMP Clean Energy now has four generator sites connected in Ninfield, Sellindge and Richborough in South East England, with a combined capacity of 15MW.

UK Power Networks and NESO say the wider project could help more than 50 energy projects connect earlier, unlocking enough clean energy to power around one million homes. The service is now open to new generator and storage assets in the South East.

Sotiris Georgiopoulos, Director of DSO at UK Power Networks, noted, “This dispatch isn’t just a technical success – it’s a big win for our customers.

“By using local energy to support the national grid, we’re helping to speed up the move to Net Zero while keeping costs down.”

Craig Dyke, Director of System Operations at NESO, added, “This key milestone shows how local energy resources can play a national role. By working closely with UK Power Networks and other Network Operators, we’re unlocking new ways to balance the electricity system and help to keep costs low.

“Strong coordination between transmission and distribution is fundamental to delivering a smarter, more flexible energy system that works for all users.”