NIA SSEN 0048 Skyline

Key Activities

This project developed a central asset database of domestic electric EV charge-points, providing detailed visibility of their geographical emergence as early as possible. Early visibility will allow DNOs to use the lead times to better plan for the required network investments or alternative solutions to support the uptake of EVs in the locations in which they are most likely to connect.

Expected Outcomes

The earlier the DNOs can have visibility regarding new (or potential) EV charge point connections, the better they can:

Be proactive in targeting where and when investment is needed to accommodate increasing EV uptake;

Defer or even avoid the disruption and costs of reinforcing a network by using smart solutions like smart charging and flexibility first;

Minimise delays and disruption for customers by making sure networks are already invested in before they look to have a charge point installed.

Progress

The project is now closed having met its objectives. The data sharing platform and overall concept it demonstrated are ready to be scaled up for implementation. Bi directional data sharing (i.e. DNO info on cut-out and an MPAN lookup feature) to secure the engagement and sharing of data by DSCs is a precursor requiring further development. As noted, this type of capability is being developed under the ENA’s Digitalisation of Connections initiative during 2023.

The project partners have been buoyed by the success of the project and the useability of the data, particularly as DNOs are being encouraged in the new price control period (RIIO-ED2) to invest strategically to prevent issues from materialising, which this concept of early visibility suits particularly well.

As a result the recommendation is to seek support from other DNOs to scale up the system and put in place a plan to grow the service with new data providers, DNOs and industry participants, through delivery of a scalable industry grade service. The project partners will look to establish the requirements for building this proposal in 2023 and aim to make a decision on next steps before 2024.