An increase in low-carbon distributed generation, Electric Vehicles (EVs), Demand Side Response (DSR) and energy storage are transforming our network, giving customers access to new products and services. Our Whole System approach will be to build on the use of non-network solutions such as flexible generation and demand to make the most of existing network assets and take on the role of a Neutral Market Facilitator (NMF) and help unlock local solutions, as being trialed by our TRANSITION project. By utilising this Whole System approach, network companies such as SSEN will be key to delivering a new decentralised low-carbon system by producing a more efficient and cost-effective network to meet customers needs.

As a neutral facilitator of an open and accessible market SSEN will enable competitive access to markets and the optimal use of Distributed Energy Resources (DER) on distribution networks to deliver security, sustainability and affordability in the support of whole system optimisation.

The smart, flexibility transition is not limited to the distribution network as the transmission businesses will also be transforming. To achieve the best outcomes for customers, all sources of flexibility must be used optimally including generators, DSR, storage and interconnectors. A whole system approach will ensure a level playing field between potential providers of flexibility that account for both system needs and network capabilities.

As part of the new Whole System requirements, SSEN is looking for network users to propose ideas to assist with incorporating the Whole System strategy. The Whole System strategy is to coordinate and collaborate with other transmission and distribution licensees, as well as consider actions from the users of the electrical network. This approach is a licence obligation from Ofgem to all network operators and will allow SSEN to improve our network efficiency and economic operation for the future.

It is recommended to read the Network User Proposal for Whole System page prior to completing the proposal form. SSEN will evaluate these proposals and work with the required teams within our business to progress them where possible. There is the potential that some submissions fall within existing initiatives, such as New Connections or Flexibility Services, SSEN will carry out an initial assessment and if this is the case re-direct your proposal to the relevant teams. If your proposal is related to flexibility such as Flexible Connections or Flexible Services, please visit our Flexible Solutions page for more information on SSEN’s suite of Flexible Connections or current opportunities for Constraint Management Zones (CMZs).