UK Power Networks launches nation’s first independent DSO
Summary
UK Power Networks’ new DSO will ensure that sufficient electricity capacity exists across London, the East and South East to support the anticipated uptake of electric vehicles (EVs), heat pumps and renewables generation. The DSO launch was celebrated at the IET London, with CEO Basil Scarsella and director of DSO Sotiris Georgiopoulos presenting its vision and plans for the year, joined by industry leaders including Ofgem CEO Jonathan Brearley, director of regulation and economics for Octopus Rachel Fletcher and Electricity System Operator executive director Fintan Slye. Jonathan Brearley said the move was key to the UK’s transition to a low carbon future. “At the heart of this is Distribution System Operators and it’s great to see UK Power Networks leading the way. I’m really hoping that the DNOs make sure they are developing compelling and ambitious plans in terms of their version of the DSO model, but ultimately we will look nationally, pick out the best bits and make sure we have a system that functions for this massive transmission that we’re on.” Basil Scarsella said: “The DSO marks the start of a new era for electricity networks across the UK.