DNOs required to compile standardised asset registers

Ofgem has approved a new requirement for distribution network operators (DNOs) to compile registers of all assets connected to their networks with a capacity of more than 1MW that have an influence on the national power grid.

The modification to the Distribution Code named DCP350 was proposed by flexible generation company UK Power Reserve in July 2019. The requirement will also apply to independent distribution networks operators (IDNOs) and cover sites with a connection agreement.

“Improved data that is shared with connection customers and regularly updated with errors identified and corrected will enable DNOs to better invest in and manage their networks,” Ofgem said in the decision letter. “In addition, publicly shared data will enable the industry as a whole to utilise and develop the electricity system more effectively.”

It continued: “By being able to identify the location and types of current and future embedded/distributed energy resources, market participants can make improvements to business cases for investing and assessment of commercial risk. It would also improve the ability for energy resources to be optimised and utilised once connected.

“DNOs and [National Grid Electricity System Operator] will be able to better assess where connections could offer services for network management or system operation and therefore should introduce greater levels of competition into these markets.”

In February, the six DNOs in Great Britain all published asset registers as part of the Energy Networks Association’s Open Networks project.

Ofgem described them as a “positive step forward” but said they do not contain all of the necessary information. It said the new data requirements have been aligned with the existing registers so DNOs can meet their obligations by adding to them.

The original proposal was for the registers to be combined together to form a national list that would be made publicly available. However, the workgroup decided this was unnecessary to achieve its stated aims. The modification instead requires DNOs to publish the information individually in a standardised format on their websites.

Where the data is not held by the DNO or available through public sources, Ofgem said they should request it from other stakeholders or directly from customers. Whilst acknowledging concerns over the publishing of customer-specific information, the regulator reiterated its intention to introduce a new licence obligation for network companies to following best practice guidance when working with data.

Ofgem also noted the strong support for a national register among respondents to the consultation on the modification – encouraging DNOs to develop proposals for its future creation – as well as the ambition by some to lower the size threshold significantly and include aggregated fleets of assets.

The modification will take effect on 11 July.