DSO: Distribution System Operations

Right now, we’re creating the smart, fair, system to power the electricity network for the years to come.

In practice, this means we’re doing a power of work to get more people and projects connected to a growing electricity system.

We’re making it fit-for-purpose for the millions more EVs that will take to the roads, and the heat pumps that will warm our homes.  

We’re opening the doors to a flexible electricity market, where everyone can play a part.  

Our 4 Strategic Commitments

If the UK is to deliver its net zero emissions target by 2050, the energy industry needs to embrace a fundamental change in order to decarbonise transport and heat. Our approach is tailored to local needs to drive a just and fair transition, advising and guiding our stakeholders in coordination with local communities to help them deliver net zero at maximum pace and minimum cost. To achieve this we are focusing on 4 key areas:

Forecasting & Planning future needs
Developing an inclusive flexibility marketplace
Developing network flexibility at scale
Driving transparency and coordination

Discover how we are delivering a smarter electricity system ​

Our DSO plan in action

  • Our DSO Action Plan

    DSO is the critical part of the energy value chain that must be developed at pace to deliver flexibility - the core tool that will enable consumer opportunity and participation, and create the system capacity needed to achieve net zero.
    Find out more

  • Publications and Reports ​

    Our publication and reports are designed to be your go-to resource for everything you need to know about what we're up to. We'll lay out all the details of our current projects, give you a sneak peek into what we have in store for the future, and honestly assess how we're doing along the way.
    Find out more

  • Data & Digitalisation

    Data is vital for us here at SSEN. It gives insights into demand and capacity. It can offer predictions on the cost of new projects, and it provides context on the robustness of the network in any given area. Together, this information means better planning decisions can be made, for the benefit of all of us. Read more here about how we will manage data-sharing in the years to come.
    Find out more

  • Flexibility

    Flexibility means changing how much power is generated or consumed in certain locations when requested. We buy Flexibility Services from the owners and operators of generation, storage and demand assets connected to our network. We are committed to doing this in a smart and fair way, to procure flexibility when there’s demand, and when it can be used effectively.

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  • Whole systems

    Investment in new generation. Effective procurement of flexibility services. Work to further improve the network. Tailored access products to bring forward connection dates. All of these have their part to play, in the smart fair electricity system we are building. This is the Whole Systems approach, and we’re doing a power of work in these fields to ensure there’s a fit-for-purpose electricity network in the years to come.
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  • DSO Consultation Library

    Prior to our final reports being published (and you can find them under ‘Publications and Reports’ elsewhere on this page) we issued draft reports and strategies, so you could read them and tell us what you think through our consultation processes. In line with our commitment to transparency, you can look back at these initial documents here.
    Find out more

For any queries or to request further information

Please contact us on our email: stakeholder.engagement@sse.com

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