Scotland’s Grid Strengthened by Flexibility Services

Monday 2 September 2024

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has reached a significant milestone by launching its first-ever flexibility services in Scotland.

The electricity Distribution Network Operator (DNO) responsible for the northern region of Scotland, SSEN, has introduced flexibility services on Scotland’s islands for the first time.

In a strategic move, the DNO will be issuing a Request for Information (RFI) to customise these services to cater to the unique requirements of the islands and the communities residing there.

During the initial phases of implementing flexibility services, SSEN opted for hydropower instead of diesel as a backup generation source in case of network faults, demonstrating a shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

Flexibility services not only enhance the reliability of electricity supply to island communities but also pave the way for reducing their dependence on diesel generators.

Catherine Winning, the Flexibility Services Manager at SSEN Distribution, expressed her enthusiasm about the potential of Scotland’s islands in integrating Flexibility Services into the local electricity framework.

“Scotland’s islands possess unique characteristics and hold immense potential for the development of Flexibility Services as part of the regional energy landscape,” noted Winning.

“Our initial endeavours in this arena have yielded significant benefits for island communities, resulting in a noteworthy reduction of over 40,000 kg of carbon dioxide emissions.”

“The advantages for prospective service providers and the broader communities are evident, and I look forward to engaging with interested parties to further expand these benefits,” she added.

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