One of the most important recommendations in the report is to identify a ‘system architect’ role, which would ensure a holistic approach to adapting the power grid to meet the complex new requirements presented by decarbonisation. This would ensure integration across the supply chain linking consumers, distribution networks, transmission networks and national system operation. Identifying a system architect body is common practice in other areas of engineering, for example rail and aviation, where such bodies work with their sector’s stakeholders to develop and implement Codes and Standards.
Most people acknowledge that the electricity network will face unprecedented change over the next 20 years. For those of us involved with managing the nation’s power networks, the challenges are huge. Our job is to create a system that can deal with two-way local power flows and less-predictable generation, while also ensuring security of supply and affordability for customers. We won’t achieve this by looking at parts of the energy system in isolation. Instead, we need to consider the whole energy system: a ‘one system’ approach.
The IET has brought together experts from industry, government and the regulator in a group – Power Network Joint Vision (PNJV) – to share learning and knowledge and identify long-term and cost-effective solutions to the challenge ahead.
We have an opportunity now to take action to minimise costs and create worldwide opportunities for innovation andUKleadership. The scale and complexity of the challenges ahead is new, and potentially even greater than when the national grid was first developed in the 1930s. Fresh thinking is needed.
This is a cross-industry challenge, so we want to hear from as wide a range of stakeholders as possible. You can download a copy of the report and give us your feedback at www.theiet.org/PNJV. We look forward to hearing your views.
John Scott is on the IET’s Power Network Joint Vision panel