Data from two ‘demand response’ events that called on consumers to shift usage for an hour on 15 November and 22 November exceeded expectations, with consumers overdelivering by over 35% against targets on both occasions, according to system operator NGESO.
The system operator said that the test events delivered over 780MWh of real and projected demand reduction, whilst delivering participating providers with an anticipated £2.8 million in savings. Four suppliers joined the first event and 14 joined the second. Now more than a million households and businesses have signed up to participate and there are 26 providers involved.
Data on three other events on 30 November, 1 December and 12 December have not yet been finalised but in an industry briefing Ngeso said it expected the response to increase.
Ngeso said that on both the first and second tests consumer engagement in the Demand Flexibility Service had exceeded expectations. In the first test household electricity providers delivered 50% more reduction than expected and in the second test they reduced usage by 35% more than expected.
Across both of the first two tests the Demand Flexibility service delivered a total of 314.2MWh of demand reduction.
At least two tests a month to be held between now and the end of March for each provider.
Whilst the tests continue, the Demand Flexibility Service remains a live option for the ESO’s control room to use if needed, in order to maintain the ESO’s operational margins (the excess electricity held by the ESO at any one time).
Craig Dyke, Head of National Control said: “Delivering the first of the Demand Flexibility Service test events is a major milestone in the evolution of consumer flexibility in the UK. This service successfully proves that consumers up and down the country are standing by to get involved in flexibility solutions. These test results show that if called upon this service will help the ESO balance the national electricity network this winter and is a valuable addition to the ESO’s operational tools.”