Improving the visibility of distributed energy assets
This consultation is open for responses
Respond to this consultationSummary
DESNZ launches consultation on improving visibility of distributed energy assets including EV chargers, solar panels, heat pumps and batteries through better data collection from installation to operation. The consultation seeks views on strategic data flows and options for mandating asset registration. No specific mechanisms or costs are proposed at this stage.
Why it matters
Data visibility enables better network planning and flexibility market development, but the consultation avoids the core question of whether to mandate registration through planning systems or create new bureaucracy. As such, this could either reduce network costs by enabling targeted reinforcement or add compliance costs without fixing the underlying problem that DNOs lack real-time visibility of behind-the-meter assets.
Key facts
- •Covers EV chargers, solar panels, heat pumps, domestic batteries
- •Focuses on capacity, location and usage data
- •No specific data collection mechanism proposed
Areas affected
Related programmes
Memo
Asset visibility refers to the ability to identify and understand the capacity, location, and use of devices that generate, store, or consume energy, including those capable of flexibility. Such devices include electric vehicle chargepoints, solar panel installations, heat pumps and domestic-scale electricity storage batteries. These assets operate locally (such as in homes), near the point of consumption, help households and businesses manage their energy use and are essential enablers of the government’s Clean Energy Superpower Mission - helping to make the UK a leader in clean energy by 2030. Asset visibility is essential for effective network planning, system resilience, and the growth of flexibility markets. All of which helps to minimise energy bills for consumers. This call for evidence seeks views on: * the benefits of asset visibility * a strategic view, considering the flow of asset data from installation to day-to-day use * options for improving asset visibility