National Grid’s Distribution System Operator has launched a self-serve Curtailment Estimator tool to provide faster insight into network connection constraints.
National Grid DSO said the tool enables customers to access high-level and technical curtailment insights instantly without submitting connection applications.
The operator added that the platform uses the latest connections queue, network data and historic time-series load to generate bespoke reports in under five minutes.
The Curtailment Estimator supports Flexible and Curtailable connections facilitated by Active Network Management systems to help customers connect faster and at lower cost.
The cloud-hosted tool allows users to assess existing applications, apply attrition to the connections queue and adjust export capacity to explore different scenarios.
“Our new tool is about changing the way curtailment insight is accessed and used. By making high-quality, up-to-date analysis available on demand, we’re giving customers the tools they need to move faster with confidence,” said Will Topping, DSO curtailment team leader at National Grid DSO.
“It’s a clear example of how our DSO is modernising through cloud-based platforms, better use of data and direct customer feedback to support quicker, more efficient connections.”
“NGED’s Curtailment Estimator is a step forwards in providing visibility around potential curtailment risk using Active Network Management. We support all steps to increase visibility of risk for customers before having to make significant investments in projects,” said Philip Bale, specialist connections engineer at Roadnight Taylor.
“This will be very helpful in determining some of the key causes of constraint within certain networks and to help understand what may need to change to reduce the risk of constraints with ANM.”