Applying whole systems thinking to provide unbiased and independent expertise and insight into electricity transmission and distribution networks

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Accelerating networks to Net Zero with power systems engineering

Our Power Systems practice is a key component of our Systems Engineering capability, helping to deliver thought leadership, offering technical expertise, power systems modelling & simulation to accelerate the power sectors transition to Net Zero.

Thought Leadership – identifying challenges faced by electricity networks and providing recommendations and frameworks to progress to sustainable solution to decarbonise grids.

Technical Expertise – applying subject matter expertise in operating, designing, and managing Grid Power Systems and researching into new technology and markets.

Power Systems Modelling and Simulation – providing insights and analysis to solutions via modelling and simulations for power flow studies and networks designs using software such as DigSilent, PowerFactory, Python and MATLAB.

Transition to Net Zero – working with incumbent organisations to modernise power systems to achieve favourable future energy scenarios with uncompromised energy security, reliability, and affordability.

Industry Standards and Codes

Grid Integration Considerations

 

Whole Systems Approach

Electricity Transmission and Distribution Expertise

System Operation Expertise

Market and Industry Expertise

Case Studies

Electricity Networks Commissioner

Energy Systems Catapult chair, Nick Winser, was appointed as Electricity Networks Commissioner in July 2022 by Rt Hon Grant Shapps, Secretary of State for the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and tasked with providing advice to Government on how to reduce the time it takes to deliver transmission infrastructure in Britain.

The challenge was that the electricity transmission network requires upgrading and expanding to connect renewable generation and support decarbonisation. It currently takes up to 14 years to build new transmission infrastructure. The objective was to identify and recommend areas where the end-to-end delivery process could be shortened by 3 years, and ideally by half.

The Commissioner was supported by a detailed companion report by Energy Systems, including:

  • Mapping the end-to-end process using a System Engineering approach.
  • Identifying 8 key challenge themes where time could potentially be saved.
  • Engaging with over 200 stakeholders from 15 organisations, including Governments, Transmission Owners and Ofgem to identify and refine options for process change.

The Commissioner final report with 18 recommendations, supported by the Catapult companion report, found:

  • Current timescales of 12-14 years for building new electricity transmission lines can be reduced to seven years to help deliver energy security and Net Zero.
  • It was vital that clean, secure, affordable electricity from 50GW of new wind and 24GW of new nuclear must reach homes and businesses.
  • “Open, transparent and efficient” engagement with communities and people about impact of new transmission infrastructure is key.

How to work with us

We are not-for-profit, independent and technology-agnostic – building a trusted track record of delivering thought leadership, collaborative R&D and commercial commissions – so are uniquely placed to take on the challenges that others cannot tackle.

Collaborate with us: We work with partners from the public and private sectors to secure funding and collectively deliver the innovation projects and thought leadership that tackle the hardest challenges in the way to Net Zero.

Commission us: We offer independent support, evidence and insights – with technical, commercial and policy expertise – to identify and deliver Net Zero innovation priorities. Then actively support clients to develop actionable plans for implementation.

Contact us

If you are interested in working with us, contact us by completing the form and one of the team will be in touch.

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