UK network operator seeks more flexibility services after accepting 555 MW

UK distribution and transmission network operator SP Energy Networks has accepted bids of 555 MW of flexibility services as a result of its spring tender and is seeking more in a second flexibility tender this year, according to an announcement today.

Through the new round the company wants to secure 110 MW of flexibility services for the next three years.

The latest tender sought 1.4 GW of capacity at all voltage levels for the period between 2023 and 2028.

“The response to our latest flexibility tender is extremely encouraging, and is a clear sign that the market is becoming more aware of our requirements and the opportunities that flexibility services represent,” commented Gerard Boyd, acting head of DSO at SP Energy Networks.

Flexibility services providers could be owners of generation assets or low carbon technologies such as wind turbines, battery storage, solar or electric vehicles that may be asked to turn down or up depending on the needs of the network.

The 555 MW of accepted bids, coupled with capacity already contracted, could deliver more than 700 MW of flexibility services, which is equivalent to 100,000 electric vehicles charging on the network, the company estimates.

SP Energy Networks operates across Central and Southern Scotland, North Wales, Merseyside, Cheshire and North Shropshire.

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