Piclo, the UK’s leading independent marketplace for flexibility services, is today announcing that Northern Powergrid (NPg) is the latest Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to manage its flexibility services procurement on Piclo Flex.
Northern Powergrid will be utilising the Markets module on Piclo Flex to procure flexibility services and run competitions and bidding for long-term contracts, from the end of August, in North East, Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire. In addition to this, the organisation will be working with Piclo’s engagement and customer success teams to build a network of flexibility service providers (FSPs), making it easier for providers to engage with the DNO.
Flexibility services are an essential piece of the puzzle in achieving an efficient net zero energy system, avoiding costly grid upgrades in the face of an increasingly complex grid. FSPs can connect assets - such as power generators, renewable sources and large users of electricity, as well as EVs, battery storage, heat pumps, and other demand response assets - turning up their supply or reducing their demand on the network to create capacity on the network when demand is high, securing additional income in the process. FSPs interested in participating in upcoming tenders can now register on Piclo Flex.
Northern Powergrid will be running competitions for flexibility services for delivery starting in 2024, and also seeking expression of interest in providing flexibility services at more locations for 2027 or later.
Piclo has been developing its marketplace’s end-to-end functionality since 2019. To date, Piclo Flex has a registered capacity of 1.1GW of flexibility from more than 400 FSPs which is used to plug additional capacity back into the grid during times of constraint.
This two year agreement cements Piclo’s position as market leader in the UK with four out of the six leading network operators including UK Power Networks, Electricity North West, SP Energy Networks and Northern Powergrid, as well as transmission system operator the ESO, now fulfilling their flexibility services needs via Piclo Flex.
James Johnston, CEO at Piclo, said:
"We are thrilled to be working with Northern Powergrid. Their decision to use Piclo Flex to procure their flexibility services is a testament to the quality, reputation and impact of our marketplace as a service platform. We are committed to providing them with unparalleled service, customised market engagement, and cutting-edge technology that will not only optimise their operations but also contribute to their flexibility-first goals. This collaboration marks an exciting milestone for Piclo, and we look forward to working closely with Northern Powergrid to achieve shared success and strive towards our goal of fully decarbonising the grid."
Maurice Lynch, Head of System Flexibility, Norther Power Grid said:
“Northern Powergrid is committed to making flexibility a key part of powering the UK towards net zero by 2050. Flexibility services are a way of efficiently managing network utilisation and reinforcement, which means we can get the best value out of the existing network, maximising cost efficiency for all customers. Our partnership with Piclo is an exciting step on this journey, allowing us to work more effectively with Flexibility Service Providers, and them to earn additional income in the process. It’s a win-win for everyone and we look forward to seeing the impact it will have for us, our partners, and our customers''.
Northern Powergrid is the electricity distribution network operator for the North East, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire. It delivers power safely and reliably to 8 million customers across 3.9 million homes and businesses through its network of more than 63,000 substations and 60,000 miles of overhead power lines and underground cables, spanning some 9,650 square miles. In an evolving energy industry, Northern Powergrid has a key role in creating and managing future energy systems that increasingly interact with customers and smart and low carbon technologies. The company is innovating and investing today so its network is ready for the demands of a net zero tomorrow. Find out more about Northern Powergrid at www.northernpowergrid.com or on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram.
Greenhouse Communications
northernpowergrid@greenhouse.agency
Piclo Marketing and Communications Team
[This notice was update on 26th March, 2024]
Piclo’s mission is to decarbonise the grid. We develop software solutions that make our energy networks smarter, flexible and more sustainable. Piclo Max, our market access platform, enables flex sellers (such as EV and battery owners) to access all electricity markets from one place. Piclo Flex, our flexibility services marketplace, enables flex buyers (system operators) to source flexible electricity from flex sellers during times of high demand or low supply.
To date, Piclo has over 300,000 registered flexible assets representing 22 GW of registered flex capacity, with flexibility contracts awarded totalling £74m and 2.6 GW+ of flexible capacity procured.
Piclo currently operates in six global markets: in the UK, supporting all six Distribution System Operators (UK Power Networks, SP Energy Networks, Electricity North West, Northern Powergrid, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks and National Grid Electricity Distribution); and the Transmission System Operator (TSO) (the ESO); in Ireland (ESB Networks), Italy (E-Distribuzione), Portugal (E-REDES)); in Australia (CitiPower, Powercor); and in the United States in New York State (National Grid) and Connecticut (United Illuminating). Aside from its leading position in the UK, Piclo has a growing presence in Europe, USA and the Asia-Pacific.
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