Ofgem has announced funding of £44.6m for six projects aimed at developing smarter energy grids in the UK.
The projects are funded through the energy regulator’s Network Innovation Competition.
They include Western Power Distribution’s use of cloud-based software to allow local communities to make more efficient use of locally-connected renewable energy.
Another project will see Scottish Power Transmission trial new equipment that aims to regulate frequency and voltage on the grid in response to variable output from wind farms.
Other winners involve testing ‘greener’ gas on networks, trialling new types of circuit breakers and testing whether small-scale distribution-connected generators can provide voltage stability to help manage the grid.
Ofgem senior partner networks Jonathan Brearley said: “This year’s trials will test a variety of new technologies and arrangements.
“If they are successful they will provide networks with valuable learning that may be incorporated into their everyday working practices, providing financial and environmental benefits to consumers.”
Image: Ofgem
