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.