Introduction: The project, consisting of parallel feasibility studies, seeks to establish the requirements of implementing a Real-Time Network within SGN’s networks and subsequently, following a successful NIC project, the rest of GB. As part of the NIA project, the feasibility studies will be assessed, both internally and independently with the preferred approach advising a NIC bid submission.

The studies will consist of assessment of areas of current business as usual practices as well as a view of required practices for both pre and post implementation.

Objectives:

This project seeks to achieve the  following outcomes:

• A clear review of current legislation and documentation
• A completed review of previous projects in relevant areas
• Analysis of potential trial sites across SGN’s supply zones
• Identification of potential tech providers
• Review of IT infrastructure and outline requirements for NIC

• Stakeholder engagement plan
• Production of a cost benefit analysis

Following completion of the above stages a review process will be completed both internally by the project steering group and by an independent assessor.

Expected Benefits: The success of this project will be reviewed against the following criteria:

• Two feasibility studies into Real-Time Networks consisting of:

• Identification of relevant legislation to be considered in NIC bid process

• A view of relevant past projects to feed into a Real-Time Network

• Recommendation of sites to trial a Real-Time Networks within SGN’s licensed supply areas

• Guide of recommended tech partners to provide sensor and metering solutions

• Outline of IT infrastructure requirements

• Stakeholder Engagement Plan

• CBA

• Analysis concluding the preferred method to take forward to an NIC bid submission in 2015