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ESO
Use of System (UoS) and Virtual Lead Party (VLP)
If you want to use the National Electricity Transmission System (NETS) without being physically connected, then you’ll need to enter contractual terms and accede to the Connection and Use of System Code (CUSC).
Please choose from which of the three customer groups you fall into, and download the relevant guidance document and application form.
Supplier
A supplier is a company who buys electricity from generators to then sell to their customers, who could be industrial, commercial or domestic. They use the NETS to transport the electricity they buy from the generator to their customers. The user guide below contains additional information on how to apply, as well as the costs and timescales involved.
Interconnector User
An Interconnector user is a company who buys electricity from outside the UK to then sell to the GB market. They use the NETS to transport the electricity they buy from the interconnector to their customers. The user guide below contains additional information on how to apply, as well as the costs and timescales involved.
Virtual Lead Party (VLP)
A Virtual Lead Party (VLP) is an independent aggregator that controls (potentially on behalf of a third party) power generation and/or electricity demand from a range of assets for the purposes of selling Balancing Services to National Grid ESO. The VLP does not simultaneously supply energy as this is the role of a Supplier. The user guide below contains additional information on how to apply, as well as the costs and timescales involved.