Transition to Net Zero

UK Power Networks is driving toward its net-zero goal by creating a greener, more reliable energy network. Accurate weather data from Meteomatics enables the company to forecast energy supply and demand and balance distribution through flexibility markets. This approach ensures low-carbon technologies can be integrated smoothly, keeping the network efficient and future-ready.

UK Power Networks’ Commitment to the Net Zero Transition

The UK government targets net zero carbon emissions by 2050, and UK Power Networks is committed to facilitating this transformation across London, the South East, and East of England. 

The company aims to ensure the right capacity is available where and when it’s needed, at the lowest possible cost for customers.

The energy sector has long relied on weather data, but the push toward net zero is amplifying its importance as more renewables are integrated into the grid. Previously using a lower spatio-temporal granularity data provider, UK Power Networks has switched to Meteomatics to gain access to more reliable, high-resolution weather data.

UK Power Networks’ Distribution System Operator Balances Electricity Flow

For the net zero transition, the electricity sector is shifting from a passive Distribution Network Operator (DNO) model to an active Distribution System Operator (DSO) model.

While DNOs maintain the grid by ensuring reliable power supply, DSO's work in real time, managing the network, to help facilitate access for decentralized energy sources.

In April 2023, UK Power Networks took a major step by launching the UK’s first independent DSO. In the words of Jamie Bright, DSO Data Science & Development Manager, “Our mission is to stay ahead of the game, ensuring the network is always ready to support anyone who wants to participate in the net zero transition.”

The DSO uses Meteomatics’ data to forecast energy demand, renewable energy generation, understand energy storage, and balance the grid dynamically through flexibility markets.

Meteomatics provides the DSO with high-quality, granular weather data at a spatial resolution of 90 meters that enhances forecasting accuracy for both demand and renewable generation at a hyperlocal level. This detailed weather information helps predict energy output from individual assets, such as wind turbines enabling smarter decision-making.

“More frequent and higher-spatial granularity weather data has been a game changer for creating probabilistic forecasts, meaning we can retain the same operational resiliency and reliability whilst using our network assets more efficiently”, says Jamie Bright.

Using advanced machine learning and AI, UK Power Networks DSO processes historical weather data to train models that can predict demand spikes and guide real-time flexibility decisions. With over 120,000 transformers to manage, these predictive models allow control room operators to respond proactively, maintaining balance across the network with minimal intervention.

Over £400 Million in Cost Savings Through Flexibility Markets

Flexibility markets have proven to be a cost-effective strategy, with expected savings of over £400 million over five years for billpayers. 

By incentivizing off-peak charging for electric vehicles and other demand-shifting behaviors, UK Power Networks can continue to connect more electric vehicles, heat pumps and renewable power ahead of needing to upgrade infrastructure. This approach keeps energy affordable and accessible, supporting the transition to net zero at a lower cost to consumers.

“The difference between our worst case and median scenario demand forecasts can be as dramatic as 100% during significant weather uncertainty, which could double amount of flexibility procurement needed. Better accuracy forecasts reduce that difference significantly, resulting in a more efficient flexibility market”, says Alex Howard, Head of Flexibility Markets at UK Power Networks.

The collaboration between Meteomatics and UK Power Networks DSO underscores the transformative power of accurate weather data in modern energy management.

In addition to supporting the integration of renewable energy sources into the network, Meteomatics’ weather data has far-reaching applications within the company, including dynamic outage management, now a standard service at UK Power Networks. 

For example, during a 12-week outage, Meteomatics' forecasts helped UK Power Networks avoid curtailing renewable assets, avoiding 23 GWh of curtailment, saving approximately £2 million in lost revenue, and preventing 4,682 tonnes of CO₂ emissions.

Another innovative service is curtailment forecasting (under development), which provides generation units with predictions on when they might need to reduce output. This forecasting allows them to plan operations efficiently, protecting equipment and optimizing market participation.

Additionally, UK Power Networks is advancing dynamic line rating, where weather forecasting is integrated into their distribution management system to assess real-time capacity based on conditions like temperature and wind, unlocking extra capacity and improving efficiency without costly infrastructure upgrades.

This partnership not only advances the goal of net zero but also provides a scalable, innovative approach to energy management, supporting a stable, affordable, and green energy future.