SSEN launches open data trials with Icebreaker One

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) has partnered with open data venture Icebreaker One to explore what data sharing will be needed for key net-zero projects.

Officially working with an electricity network for the first time, the not-for-profit organisation will attempt to identify and tackle data siloes and develop data-sharing opportunities. Examples given included developing two-way flows of new electric vehicle (EV) registrations and network capacity information, while ensuring customer privacy and cyber security measures are managed.

Two initial trail projects will seek to identify key datasets needed, understand the barriers to data sharing for SSEN and overcome those hurdles.

Andrew Roper, distribution system operations director for SSEN Distribution, said: “As a network operator we are responsible for holding and managing energy data. Sharing our data in a carefully agreed manner with other network users can play a major role in helping to plan and prepare for the arrival of low carbon technologies on our network. We are learning from other sectors such as the UK banking industry, which developed more open banking processes that increased competition and innovation, creating better service and more value for customers.

“We are delighted to be working with Icebreaker One on this initial project, which should facilitate data sharing and support efficiencies which will ultimately deliver a more cost-effective net zero transition.”

Gea Mikic, co-founder and programme director at Icebreaker One, said:  “Rolling out the chargepoints we need to support the transition to EVs relies on connecting data across a network of organisations, with energy networks like SSEN at the heart of it.

“This partnership will speed up the UK’s energy data revolution by identifying how SSEN can access and share the energy data needed to get more electric vehicle charge points installed in homes across the UK.

“Better access to data is crucial to delivering net zero, from installing more electric vehicle charge points to adding more renewables to our energy grid. This is why we’re determined to make data work harder to get to net zero.”

Laura Sandys CBE, chair of the Energy Digitalisation Taskforce, said:  “It is crucial that networks make their data shareable and adopt the presumed open principle and SSEN is doing some exciting work here with Icebreaker One. We are hoping that all networks will be making their data accessible and as open as possible to ensure that we can crowd in new actors and companies to support the management of a decarbonised grid.”

You can read an interview with Icebreaker One chief executive Gavin Starks here.