The structural shift of the energy landscape from a centralized market to a decentralized structure creates new challenges for network management at distribution level. This project will aim to explore new, flexible, smart energy solutions in order to provide more electricity flexibility to the DNO (Distribution network operator) and the TSO (Transmission system operator). It is a £19m program financed by the European Regional Development Fund, and Centrica.
Cornwall is a part of the UK that benefits of very favourable conditions for renewable energy generation. Unfortunately, its electrical grid is today unable to sustain the installation of additional generation sources. At the same time, Cornwall is exposed to extreme weather conditions in winter and the grid is also critically congested due to over-consumption.
The LEM platform developed by Centrica and N-SIDE aims at trying alternatives to expensive and time consuming grid reinforcement. This pioneering trial will test the use of flexible demand, generation and storage across both the B2C and B2B sector. This way, the distribution grid operator will have a cost-efficient solution to resolve the congestions on its network. Finally, given the decentralization of the electrical landscape today, National Grid will also look to procure balancing services at distribution level through the LEM.
N-SIDE is developing the algorithm that will clear the market. To do so, N-SIDE is leveraging its extensive experience in energy market designs to make the LEM an attractive place for flexible assets owner, for the TSO and for the DNO.
Any question ? Contact N-SIDE Energy team
The Cornwall Local Energy Market is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund under the European Structural and Investment Funds Programme 2014-2020