National Grid’s electricity control room has today (Jan 23) introduced a new ‘Distributed Resource’ Desk that enables power system engineers to give instructions much faster to smaller generators, battery storage operators, and demand side response providers.
Responding, Hannah Smith, Senior Policy Manager at Scottish Renewables, said: “Small-scale renewable energy assets, energy storage, and demand side response all play a key role in delivering the smart system we need to tackle climate change and keep costs low for consumers.
“We welcome the move by National Grid to create a dedicated ‘Distributed Resource’ desk, which will help make the most of the benefits these assets bring to our electricity network.
“To reap the full benefits, it is crucial that the full suite of renewable energy technologies, at all scales, are able to offer services on a level playing field to other system assets.
“Renewable energy provides continue to face significant market uncertainty. Industry has no clear sight of the level of compensation small-scale electricity generators will receive for putting energy onto the grid, and a series of reforms to charging practices could prove damaging to the sector.
“We would encourage government, Ofgem and others to follow National Grid ESO’s lead and recognise the value of these assets in reducing emissions, reducing costs to consumers and balancing the nation’s electricity system.”
