Regulator Ofgem has been pushing forward with changes in regulation designed to support the evolution of network operators from passive “wires” companies to active partners in network management.  Its move from RPI-X regulation to RIIO – based on outputs instead of installation, and with incentives for innovation – was part of this process.
But the initiative that has helped kick start change at DNOs was the Low Carbon Networks Fund (LCNF), which allowed companies to fund, and potentially benefit from, risky and innovative projects.