Investment and delivery in the spotlight
Electricity networks are on the verge of some of the most far-reaching changes for almost half a century. Under the new distribution price control review (DPR4), electricity Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) will be able to spend £5.7 billion over the next five years in strengthening and developing their networks. This is an increase of around 48 percent over current levels.
This investment, coupled with the introduction of the new registered power zones ' which provide financial incentives for DNOs to offer innovative options for generators wanting to connect to their network ' will help remove the barriers to further development of distributed generation and CHP, and accommodate growth in renewables.
Such significant and rapid investment will require new collaborative ways of working by DNOs and suppliers. There will be increased emphasis on contractual transparency, risk sharing and involvement of key suppliers at the initial network design stage.
The key technical problems associated with increasing levels of distributed generation are fault-level management, power-flow management and voltage control. As the design, operation and management of networks evolve, there will be an increasing need for more intelligence in power systems, the adoption of new innovative connections and more actively managed networks. Technologies such as FACTS (Flexible AC Transmission Systems) devices, HVDC transmission, HVDC Light, demand-side and wide-area monitoring systems will be fundamental to ensuring security and quality of supply.
Some insight into how ABB is developing its approach is provided by articles in this issue covering co-operating with National Grid’s collaborative practices and working with DNOs and customers to implement new connections quickly, efficiently and economically.
London’s success in winning the 2012 Olympics will provide a further boost to UK investment, as the infrastructure to support this exciting and ambitious project is created. Along with other UK-based companies, we congratulate the London team on its success and welcome this tremendous opportunity.