Flexibility

Using flexibility services to keep costs down, manage uncertainty and speed up connections

Participate in flexibility tenders
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As more people opt for low-carbon, electric alternatives, the demand on the electricity network continues to rise.

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Through data, forecasting and cross-sector coordination, UK Power Networks’ DSO is working to maximise the use of flexibility as a smart, cost-effective solution to this rising demand, helping to enable the transition to Net Zero at a faster pace and lower cost for all.

‘Flexibility’ is the ability to change generation or consumption patterns to support the electricity system. It offers a smart alternative to building new infrastructure. Instead of owning assets, we find the safest way to make the most of our existing capacity.
From domestic customers to property managers, businesses and major energy users – anyone can benefit from our flexibility tenders and be incentivised to move their energy outside of peak times. By bringing customers and local communities along on the decarbonisation journey, we are ensuring that no one is left behind and everyone feels engaged and informed, and therefore empowered to participate in flexibility.

Key features

We are proud to offer the most inclusive flex procurement in Britain and we are continuing to simplify the participation process:

Competitive fee for flexibility

Guaranteed revenues

Combine with other flex programmes

Support decarbonisation

Only 10kW+ capacity required per location

Range of baselining approaches

Open to both energy efficiency providers and flexible asset operators

How you can take part

Our Autumn 2023 tender is for 850MW of flexibility across 452 zones. Opportunities are available to providers who can:

 

Reduce consumption or increase generation at times of peak demand

Increase consumption or reduce generation at times of excess renewable generation

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To take part:

 

  1. Pre-qualify

    Check out details of our requirements here or through our partner Piclo. If you have flexible assets in one or more of our zones, please register your details and pre-qualify through Piclo.

  2. Submit prices

    Pre-qualified parties are then invited to submit pricing. UK Power Networks will assess pricing and award the most cost-effective contracts.

  3. Onboard

    We’ll help you get everything set up and take you through some final tests before delivery.

Detailed information on the tender process

You can find detailed information on how to take part and an overview of our requirements below.

If you are a business considering participating through your energy supplier or another flexibility service provider, you may be interested in the Flex Assure code of conduct. This document sets out what you can expect from your partner in terms of information, contracts and technical due diligence.

Download our latest consultation and contract terms for demand turn up in our tender library.

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Piclo

Flexibility for all

Explore our requirements and register for the tender on Piclo.

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Case studies

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Got a question?

If you have any further questions or need help, please do contact our dedicated team at flexibility@ukpowernetworks.co.uk

For news and updates, join our mailing list or follow us on Linkedin

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Tender Library

Could you be a flexibility provider?

The DSO is looking to recruit flexible providers who have solutions ready to connect to the grid and able to either meet or reduce demand on the network. Find out more and apply in our Tender Library.

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Upcoming events

Your chance to learn more

Our team holds numerous events from breakfast briefings to conferences – your opportunity to make your voice heard and learn more about our service.

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