NIA SSEN 0078 Demand Diversification Service for LMAs Phase 2 – Commercial Trials

Key Activities

Virtual Networks Trials
The project has been working with the Power Networks Development Centre (PNDC) and the Energy Systems Catapult Living Laboratory (ESCLL) to model various virtual network configurations. By using real world data captured from ESCLL volunteers, the project has analysed the impact of Demand Diversification Service (DDS) across a wide range of loads and at various penetrations of the network.

Field Trials
Non-geographic Field Trials will be run with Flexibility Service Providers (FSP). Aggregate demand data will be applied to simulated transformers to gauge the ability of FSPs, individually and as a group, to impact the demand profile on the transformer.

Expected Benefits

To clearly establish the next steps for introducing DDS as a BaU service, and its potential to enable the removal of Load Managed Areas.

Progress

As of early June 2025, the Virtual Network Trials have successfully completed four out of six sprints. Three of these have been for the Allocated Capacity (AC) model and one for the Dynamic Congestion Response (DCR) model. To date, the findings confirm the initial premiss that DDS can impact the profile of the demand on the network. However, there are several challenges that will need to be addressed before moving towards a BaU service.

Uncoordinated smart tariffs have the potential to very quickly create new peaks on the network.
Most schedulable loads (EVs, heat pumps, batteries, and storage heaters) are being driven to the same Time of Use tariffs, which is exacerbating the issue.
The initial design of real-time response to congestion in the DCR model looks like it can’t react quickly enough and, when multiple FSPs react, it may amplify the peak.
The shear volume of potential sites for DDS (1000s) may require a new approach to flexibility at LV; supported by new or enhanced systems and processes.

We are now scheduling the first Field Trials. Three suppliers and two aggregators have expressed interest in joining the trials. Another two suppliers are in early discussions.