SSEN Distribution has successfully secured almost £6 million from Ofgem's Strategic Innovation Fund to advance two innovative projects aimed at accelerating the decarbonisation journey for communities.

Both projects leverage the power of data to promote a fairer and faster transition to a net-zero future.

The VERIFY project, receiving £5,331,569, will focus on equitable decarbonisation. It builds on previous work by combining data from networks, homes, demographics, and smart meters. This comprehensive data will inform network investment decisions tailored to the specific needs of communities, especially vulnerable groups. Simon O'Loughlin, VERIFY's project manager, stated: "Our goal is to ensure people get the benefits of the low-carbon transformation, irrespective of where they live, and no matter their own circumstances." The project will collaborate with local authorities, charities, and IT specialists to develop a service applicable across sectors, including energy suppliers and local authorities, to provide better support during emergencies and times of financial need. Partners include CGI, Quarriers, Aberdeen City Council, DCC plc, E.ON, SGN, Smith Institute, and the Centre for Sustainable Energy.

-- Advertisement --

The D2I Data to Insights project, awarded £499,820, aims to revolutionise how Distribution Network Operators engage with and utilise data. This initiative will remove technical barriers hindering access to and interpretation of vast data volumes, making it easier for customers and stakeholders to gain insights. Cori Critchlow-Watton, Data to Insight's project manager, highlighted that advances in AI and other digital technologies will enable a "step-change" in data engagement. Better insights will reduce data management costs, inform connection requests, and enhance understanding of network capacity, ultimately speeding up investment decisions and supporting decarbonisation goals. Project partners include Energy Systems Catapult, CGI, University of Strathclyde, and Roadnight Taylor | Certified B Corp™.

These two SSEN Distribution innovation projects have successfully progressed through Ofgem's Strategic Innovation Fund's 'Beta' and 'Alpha' phases, with the fund delivered in partnership with Innovate UK.