NESO appointed as GB’s interim data sharing infrastructure coordinator
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The National Energy System Operator (NESO) has been appointed by Ofgem to coordinate the delivery of the data sharing infrastructure for the GB’s energy sector until 2028.
A data sharing infrastructure is considered an important element in the digitalisation of the energy sector, opening the way for the greater availability of data within the sector.
In its role of interim coordinator, NESO intends to work closely with Ofgem, industry and government to design and implement the data sharing infrastructure.
The initial focus will be on establishing a secure and interoperable framework that enables the seamless exchange of energy system data.
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Over the next four years, this role will evolve to support a wide range of use cases, including priority use cases that have been determined.
“This is a critical step in ensuring the energy sector has the right digital foundations in place for the future,” said Shubhi Rajnish, chief information officer at NESO.
“Data sharing underpins everything from system planning to market efficiency, and having a clear, coordinated approach will benefit the entire sector. We will work closely with industry to get this right, making sure the system is accessible, secure and fit for purpose.”
In a statement Ofgem describes the NESO as uniquely positioned to run the setting up of the data sharing infrastructure, having a holistic oversight of both electricity and gas networks and able to ensure an integrated approach.
As an independent, publicly owned body, NESO should provide impartial expertise and prioritise public interest and system-wide benefits.
Data sharing infrastructure
The data sharing infrastructure has emerged out of a ‘digital spine’ feasibility study, with the move away from that terminology to the three conceptual components, ‘prepare’ for formatting and enabling exchange of data, ’trust’ for the establishment of identities and access levels, and ‘share’ for the transmission of data.
A pilot of the architecture is in development prior to the start of development of an MVP in mid-year, with expected delivery in mid- to late-2026.
Initial use cases that have been identified are outage planning for the pilot and strategic planning and flexibility market asset registration for the MVP.
In parallel additional use cases are due to be commenced once sufficient functionality has been developed on the data sharing infrastructure in the MVP phase.
Suggestions include connections reform, flexibility and asset visibility, with other sets to come from within the sector.
Features for the data sharing infrastructure highlighted by Ofgem include ensuring different systems and devices can communicate seamlessly and that sensitive data is protected.
The format in which it’s exchanged should be standardised and an effective governance structure for managing and operating the data sharing infrastructure should be established.
Last but not least, it should promote innovation in the energy sector, clearing the path for the development of services and solutions that improve system efficiency and support the transition to a smart and flexible energy system.
