Challenges in leveraging the full potential of storage on distribution networks across a number of other industry applications, and a lack of scale demonstrations are currently hampering the efficient and economic uptake of storage by the electricity sector. The SNS project will tackle these core challenges, demonstrating the multi-purpose application of 6MW/10MWh of energy storage at Leighton Buzzard primary substation, and deferring £8.6m of traditional reinforcement.
Novel commercial arrangements with other key industry participants and a unique smart optimisation & control system will be developed to maximise the value of the storage across the system. Once proven successful, replication of the method across GB could conservatively provide savings of over £0.7bn by 2040 compared to business-as-usual approaches. This trial will provide important analysis on the range of future business models for storage, model contracts for optimising the use of flexibility, and improved understanding of the economics of storage for DNOs ahead of the smart grid transition across RIIO-ED1 and RIIO-ED2.