Flexible electrical networks for a low carbon future: Network and built environment opportunities for enabling smarter networks
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Flexible electrical networks for a low carbon future: Network and built environment opportunities for enabling smarter networks (IP 1/17) was written by Colin Sinclair, and published by BRE Scotland on 10 April 2017.
Equipment that delivers electricity to properties will need to be increasingly agile to meet energy demand requirements and assist in the transition to a low-carbon future. This will become crucial as low-carbon technology may increase peak network flows with surges in system voltage.
This information paper provides an introduction to the concept of flexible electrical networks. It offers an overview of technical solutions that can be applied by network and building designers, owners and operators, at either the network or built environment level, to increase flexibility in the energy system. It describes techniques tested in Scotland under the Flexible Networks for a Low Carbon Future project. It explains innovative technical solutions used to increase energy flexibility and to maintain network integrity and customer supply and service. This includes Distribution Network Operator (DNO)-led smart grid solutions that focus on increasing and enhancing the capability of existing network infrastructure in constrained areas.
The contents of the information paper are:
- Introduction.
- What is a flexible network?
- Enhanced network monitoring.
- Innovative techniques.
- Where to apply these techniques.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Developing system intelligence for optimising building electricity networks.
- Electricity supply.
- Energy infrastructure.
- Energy storage.
- Microgeneration.
- Micro-grid.
- Renewable energy.
- Smart grid.
- Smart meter.
- The Future of Electricity in Domestic Buildings.
Featured articles and news
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.