The Enabling Distributed Flexibility for Net Zero report emphasises the importance of enhancing distributed energy flexibility to support the UK’s Net Zero targets. The focus is on integrating behind-the-meter assets like residential and small non-domestic systems into a flexible, low-cost energy grid, reducing dependency on fossil fuels, and accommodating intermittent renewable energy sources.

Key points:

1. Consumer-centric approach: Achieving Net Zero requires energy systems designed around consumer needs, moving beyond selling energy units to service-based propositions. This means consumers pay for outcomes (like home warmth) rather than for energy usage itself, with service providers managing assets to ensure comfort and efficiency.
2. Digital infrastructure: A robust, interoperable digital framework is necessary for seamless data sharing and asset management. This includes automatic asset registration, standardised data-sharing mechanisms, and enhanced consumer control over energy usage data.
3. Market and policy reforms: New market models and regulatory changes are essential. Flexibility markets must be outcome-focused, and policies should incentivise innovation in consumer service models. Local electricity markets, granular pricing, and new billing structures are suggested to improve efficiency and accessibility.
4. Infrastructure and technology requirements: With increasing electric heating and vehicle adoption, the report anticipates a major overhaul of the low-voltage distribution network. Investment in digital systems to manage network loads and prevent local overloads is prioritised.
5. Operational preparedness: Emergency control systems and cold-start mechanisms for extreme weather events are recommended to ensure reliability. This would allow energy providers to stabilise network loads in high-stress situations.
6. Equity and accessibility: Specialised, affordable energy services for low-income and vulnerable consumers are needed, ensuring these groups benefit equally from flexible energy systems.

The report recommends collaborative, cross-sector action to integrate these changes effectively and achieve a resilient, consumer-oriented, and Net Zero-compliant energy system by 2050.