The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has been entrusted with the responsibility of the Regional Energy Strategic Plan (RESP), as designated by Ofgem in November 2023. This role involves ensuring that energy networks are regionally coordinated across various fuel types and geographies, incorporating local input and regional oversight. NESO requires access to granular, region-specific data to fulfil this mandate effectively. Electricity North West’s Open Data Portal offers a wealth of such data, essential for informed decision-making and fostering transparent stakeholder engagement.
Key datasets supporting the RESP
- Long Term Development Statement (LTDS)
- Description: The LTDS provides detailed information about the physical infrastructure of the electricity network, including substations, power lines, and cables.
- Application: NESO can utilise the LTDS to assess current network capabilities and identify areas requiring upgrades or expansion. This ensures that infrastructure development aligns with projected demand and supports the integration of renewable energy sources.
- Embedded Capacity Register
- Description: This register contains data on generation and storage resources connected to the distribution network, detailing their capacities and locations.
- Application: By analysing the Embedded Capacity Register, NESO can map existing distributed energy resources, facilitating the strategic planning of additional capacity and ensuring balanced load distribution across the network.
- Forecasting Data
- Description: This dataset encompasses projections of future electricity requirements, including Distributed Future Electircity Scenarios (DFES) and information on flexible services.
- Application: Forecasting data aids NESO in understanding potential future scenarios, allowing for the development of strategies that accommodate various demand and supply conditions. This proactive approach supports the creation of resilient and adaptable energy systems.
Enhancing decision-making for NESO
Access to these datasets enables NESO to:
- Strategic infrastructure planning: By analysing current network assets and projected demand, NESO can prioritise infrastructure projects that address future energy needs, ensuring efficient resource allocation.
- Policy development: Data-driven insights support the formulation of policies that encourage sustainable energy practices, the integration of renewables, and the adoption of low-carbon technologies.
- Stakeholder collaboration: Transparent access to data fosters collaboration among stakeholders, including local authorities, energy providers, and communities, leading to cohesive and well-supported energy strategies.
Promoting open and transparent engagement
Electricity North West is committed to working closely with NESO to ensure that the data we provide aligns with their needs for the Regional Energy Strategic Plan. By actively engaging with NESO, we can identify key data requirements, enhance data accessibility, and support evidence-based decision-making, ultimately fostering a more coordinated and transparent regional energy system.
By providing free and easy access to critical energy data, our data portal encourages public participation, academic research, and innovation in the energy sector. This openness not only demystifies the complexities of energy planning but also invites diverse perspectives, leading to more robust and inclusive energy solutions.
Conclusion
The datasets available through Electricity North West’s Open Data Portal are crucial tools for NESO and the development of the Regional Energy Strategic Plan. They provide the foundational information necessary for informed decision-making, effective policy development, and transparent stakeholder engagement, all of which are crucial for advancing towards a sustainable and resilient energy future.
Watch our short guied to these data sets