Data sharing service for UK utilities set to expand
This utility-focused data sharing service in the UK is scaling up to identify those most at risk of water supply issues and power outages.
Auriga Services, a public benefit entity based in the British Midlands, developed and has been running a pilot Essential Sharing Network (ESN) system, digitally sharing customer details between utility companies to identify those most at risk of water supply issues or power outages.
According to Auriga, the system – which has been operating for 18 months to date – has operated extremely well, securely sharing over 20,000 data points per month.
Stakeholders of the ESN include Auriga Services, Thames Water, UK Power Networks and London Fire Brigade.
And now, to scale the ESN, Auriga is partnering with IOTICS, a company enables secure data ecosystems.
The utility data initiative comes courtesy of Auriga’s partnership with IOTICS, which aims to enable secure decentralised data ecosystems.
On the partnership, David Woakes, client solutions director at Auriga Services, commented in a statement on how the system, having now proven itself, will grow and scale appropriately so as to “accommodate the demand for sharing of data to include multiple operators, utility companies and additional third sector providers.”
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Using a digital ecosystem built around the principles of self-sovereignty and governance, Auriga can receive online and file-based information for Priority Services Registration and securely share up-to-date information with approved stakeholders. This in turn is hoped to provide a complete support mechanism for Priority Service Users and comply with industry regulator requirements.
Ali Nicholl, head of engagement at IOTICS stated, “IOTICS is proud to support Auriga in mitigating fears around data sharing, enabling data controllers to maintain control of their data, protecting their information, and sharing only what is needed when it is needed, and with whom it is needed.”
Each stakeholder has an IOTICSpace, to selectively share information and inputs across organisational boundaries. This semantically links asset data, context, and inputs, aiming to ensure all parties maintain ownership and control of their data, analytics and applications.
Woakes added: “With government bodies including Ofgem and Ofwat urging utilities to have robust data sharing systems in place, we need continued focus and innovation to overcome challenges around those who need our support the most.
“The Auriga ESN engine supported with IOTICSpace technology is a giant leap forward in helping to make effective and timely data sharing become a reality.”
