Network Generation

The UK’s Electricity System is Changing

Network Generation

As we transition to a net zero economy, we face new challenges. How can we meet increasing electricity demand when the wind isn’t blowing, the sun isn’t shining, and renewables aren’t generating? And how do we ensure that we can store renewable power at times when generation exceeds demand? To ensure security of supply, the UK requires sources of reliable and flexible power, able to respond swiftly to fluctuations in supply and – increasingly – address pressure on local networks and constraints in urban areas.

ENWCML are actively developing decentralised energy plants that offer a localised solution to this problem. They provide standby flexible electricity which at times of peak demand, ensure we have the energy when and where it is most needed. As well as enabling the development of more renewables, our plants support the growth of new technologies such as electric vehicles and heat pumps by providing on demand energy in our busiest urban areas.

Our Solutions

ENWCML Peaking Plants

Peaking Plants use natural gas in highly efficient engines to generate electricity which is exported to the grid during times of low renewable output helping keep the energy supply to the grid stable. For example, on short winter days (low solar generation) or extended periods of low pressure (low wind generation) extra power is needed to keep the inertia on the grid stable. In doing so peaking plants ensure we have secure energy supplies whilst supporting growing renewable capacity without the risk of power cuts.

ENWCML Energy Storage

Battery Energy Storage Systems – or ‘BESS’ – provides a more instantaneous but shorter duration response than gas engines allowing them to react faster to changes in grid supplied power. Batteries are currently playing a significant role in regulating the grid’s frequency, as more battery capacity is connected to the grid it will enable power to be stored when excess electricity from low carbon generators (wind, solar, hydro etc) is generated than we can utilise, and can then export this power during times when there is less renewable generation or higher demand.

The energy landscape is fundamentally changing

Demand Side Response

As more renewable energy sources come online, our power infrastructure needs more flexibility. Grid operators need new ways to balance energy demands and Demand Side Response is the solution. We offer Demand Side Response services to our customers, generating them income, whilst helping to balance the needs of the Grid. This technology and virtual power plant portfolio enables us to provide the most optimised solution, generating the largest revenues possible from the potential flexibility of energy usage on your sites.

Why join the scheme?

National Grid offers energy intensive companies the potential to earn extra income from their assets by adjusting power consumption in real-time. National Grid has statutory responsibilities in the UK to ensure the safe operation of the electricity grid which should operate between 49.5 and 50.5 Hertz. As such, it encourages intensive energy users to participate in grid balancing schemes.

Significant financial benefits

The financial and operational benefits for participating companies can be very significant, with sums of up to £70,000 achievable for every megawatt (MW) of average onsite energy consumption saved. This is in return for around six (on average) ‘turn-down’ events per year, lasting for a maximum of 30 minutes each.

DUoS and TRIAD management

Every business uses energy and therefore every business needs to explore ways of mitigating the charges relating to DUoS (Distribution Use of System) and TRIAD (peak tariff charges).

Once our advanced Energy Connect technology platform is installed, we work with you to optimise the way you consume electricity use during peak tariff hours including:

Automated peak tariff avoidance
Load shedding strategies & guidance
Visibility and insights on tariffs and trends

We would be happy to undertake a site audit to explore the potential flexibility that might exist leading to additional financial income for your business.

Committed to protecting our customers, people and environment

With our own in-house Health, Safety, Environment and Quality (HSEQ) team responsible for the implementation of policy and standards, we work to some of the most stringent safety standards in the industry. Our operational procedures, safety standards and delivery capability has enabled the company to attain the following accreditations:

We are looking for commercial or industrial land

Land Requirements

We are looking for commercial or industrial land to rent to develop new ENWCML projects. We will fully fund the development at no risk to the landlord and will pay competitive rents for suitable sites.

What is a suitable site?

Close to high voltage electricity lines and cables, gas mains (not applicable for BESS) and telecoms
Ideally has level ground with existing hardstanding
At least 50 meters from the closest residential property
Between 3,000sq ft – 10,000sq ft
Access to the public highway

What are the landowner benefits?

20 – 30 year lease income from a bankable counterparty
Regular index linked rent reviews
Significant investment in the infrastructure of your site
A long-term operational partner
Potential direct supply of cheap electricity and heat

Think your land is suitable?

Our sites include unused car parks, open storage land, derelict or unused land around warehouses, storage facilities and factories. But our small and modular approach means that we can often create value on land that may not appear to have any. If in doubt send us your sites and our in-house Development Team will review them.