SP Energy Networks launches its biggest call for flexibility services

SP Energy Networks is calling for flexibility providers to get involved as it launches its largest ever tender for flexibility services in 40 HV and EHV locations across its license areas in Scotland, England, and North Wales.

In partnership with Piclo, an independent online marketplace for trading flexibility, the network operator is looking to procure up to 650MW of flexibility over a five-year period. In addition, 1,038 LV sites are also on offer for 288MW over five years which brings the full procurement capacity SP Energy Networks are tendering for to over 900MW.

The long-term contracts will be put in place for the period of April 2023 to March 2028.

Sites have been chosen where an increased demand on the network from electric vehicles and heating solutions is predicted, as SP Energy Networks continues to lead the way in creating a smarter, more flexible network to support the UK to meet its net-zero carbon ambitions.

Access to flexibility, where the provider pays connected assets such as generators, aggregators, and energy storage providers to operate in ways that benefit the network, will play a crucial role in its transition to a Distribution System Operator (DSO).

The move helps the firm continue to develop smarter, more flexible network solutions that remove the need for traditional reinforcement methods like new cables and substations, helping to reduce costs for customers and improve network resilience.

Flex providers interested in taking part can get involved by uploading their assets for asset pre-qualification from September 8 until the window closes on October 9. Bidding opens on October 26 before a deadline of October 30. The contracts will be awarded in December 2020. 

More information can be accessed on our business opportunity page here.