UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator (DSO) has delivered more than 10GWh of flexibility through more than 500 daily auctions, making it the first distribution-level day-ahead service in Great Britain to achieve this milestone.
More than 95% of participating assets in the day-ahead market are low-carbon technologies such as electric vehicle chargers, heat pumps and battery storage, reflecting the growing role of flexibility in supporting Clean Power 2030 ambitions and strengthening network resilience.
UK Power Networks’ DSO publishes daily flexibility dispatch data in an accessible format with API integration. This allows providers to integrate the data directly into their own systems, giving clear visibility of network requirements and expected utilisation, and supporting more confident trading on short lead times.
Designed to operate in alignment with NESO, the service enables effective coordination between distribution and transmission flexibility markets. This helps maximise the value that flexibility can deliver to the local electricity grid and the national system.
The day-ahead service – launched in spring 2024 – has scaled into an established route to market, enabling providers to respond to system needs with short lead times. The DSO is now sharing its extensive experience to support wider adoption of day-ahead flexibility approaches across the sector.
Alex Howard, head of flexibility markets at UK Power Networks, said, “Reaching 11GWh through our day-ahead market is a major milestone. When we launched this service in 2024, it was the first of its kind in Great Britain – today, it’s an established route to market supporting thousands of domestic and commercial low-carbon assets in UK Power Networks’ region.”
Michael Kenefick, grid services manager at Ev.energy, said, “UK Power Networks’ DSO’s day-ahead market has made it quicker and easier to engage EV drivers in local flexibility, enabling them to help the grid and be rewarded. The speed of access, clear data and close coordination with the wider system mean we can optimise our assets with confidence and deliver real value for customers.”
