26/07/2017

29 actions to create a smarter, more flexible energy system are outlined in a new plan that aims to reduce energy bills by giving homes and businesses more control over the ways in which they store and use electricity and by removing barriers to new smart and battery technologies.

More than 25% of the UK’s electricity is currently generated through renewables – such as wind and solar – that are often located close to homes and businesses. New technologies that help store and manage energy are also emerging.

‘Upgrading our energy system: smart systems and flexibility plan’ includes links to the plan itself, which is concerned with building on the potential of this combination of renewables and emerging technologies to reduce the cost of energy to the country and individual consumers, as well as to create new businesses, jobs and export opportunities.

It also links to ‘A smart, flexible energy system: call for evidence’ (which closed on 12 January 2017) and to a separate document setting out government and Ofgem responses to the feedback it generated, which contributed to the development of the current plan.

Rolling out smart meters, enabling suppliers to offer lower tariffs and making it easier for firms to develop smart appliances and gadgets are all recognised in the plan as helping consumers to use energy when it is cheapest or to be rewarded for returning it to the grid when it is needed.

The plan also recognises the key role of energy storage in a smart grid and the storage opportunities presented by the falling costs of battery technologies, which Ofgem and government are seeking to encourage by removing barriers that prevent their introduction to the power network.

Additionally, the plan will make it easier for new businesses to help customers reduce or increase their energy use at certain times, which can help balance demand on the network.