Firstly, our existing IT systems were built to support a very different world from the one outlined above. This way of modelling the Transmission System is embedded in the very design of these applications meaning that, over the years, we have had to develop smaller standalone applications that take data from the main systems, transform it, and then put it back. This has resulted in multiple workarounds with decreased situational awareness and a reduced ability to optimise over multiple services. To transform our existing applications would involve a complete re-write to support the new model of a net-zero landscape.
Secondly, change is constant. Our Pathfinders, RDPs and the development of new market services show that we need to adapt to new Transmission System characteristics such as low inertia, low short circuit levels etc. The more we implement change across multiple systems the more this increases costs which is why we want to seek guidance from industry.
Finally, some of our existing IT systems require a technology refresh including upgrading hardware, operating systems, and databases so that we can ensure we maintain security and have the high availability expected by the industry. The ESO wants to avoid a “big bang” when it comes to upgrading our existing IT estate. We have learnt lessons from previous projects that smaller, agile steps are the best way to approach the development of new IT.
Our current philosophy is to replace components of existing IT systems over a period of time, until we get to the point where we can totally decommission our older systems, but we need input from industry participants on the best way to do this – what are our joint priorities and how can we be transparent during the development of new applications going forward?
As part of this review, we need your help to decide on the best option for a future the transformation of the tools we use and the applications all parties interact with.