Project Details
The Power Potential project, a pioneering collaboration between National Grid ESO (NGESO), UK Power Networks, and generators on the south coast distribution network, aimed to address operational challenges in the South East of England's transmission and distribution networks. Focused on managing voltage and thermal transmission constraints, the project leveraged Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) connected to UK Power Networks' network.
Benefits to Society
Enhanced Network Capacity
Power Potential demonstrated the viability of DERs to provide dynamic voltage control, potentially deferring the need for expensive network reinforcement, leading to increased network capacity for new renewable and battery generators.
Cost Savings
Using a net present value methodology, the project’s cost-benefit analysis indicated potential savings of £19.5 million (2018 equivalent) by 2050 in a Business-as-Usual (BAU) application in the South East, with broader implications for other transmission zones.
Benefits to Network Operator
Operational Flexibility
Power Potential introduced a regional reactive power market, providing NGESO with additional operational tools for managing voltage and thermal transmission constraints, offering a dynamic solution to system constraints.
Market Access for DER
The project established a commercial framework and a technical solution, the DERs Management System (DERMS), enabling DERs to offer reactive and active power services to NGESO via UK Power Networks, showcasing the transition from a Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to a Distribution System Operator (DSO). It also showcased the ability of DER to commercially tender and compete, providing reactive power services within a Virtual Power Plant (VPP).
Cost-Benefit Analysis
The cost-benefit analysis highlighted potential long-term savings and benefits, indicating the economic viability of DER services compared to traditional transmission alternatives.
Future Rollout
Client satisfaction has led to ongoing discussions with NGESO to identify next steps for replicating and implementing DER voltage-control services. The project’s success has prompted considerations for a wider rollout to other transmission zones.
Project Statistics
Project Duration (Years)
0
DERs
0
Controlled Generation
0
MVAr
Summary
Power Potential signifies a groundbreaking initiative with significant implications for operational efficiency, cost savings, and the integration of DER into the energy landscape, paving the way for future innovations in voltage control services.
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