National Grid ESO launch Stability Pathfinder phase one

We recently shared our ambition to be able to operate the GB electricity system carbon free by 2025. We are now launching one of our first steps towards achieving this ambition – the first phase of our stability pathfinder.

Stability is the ability of the system to withstand a network disturbance and continue operating normally. Traditionally, conventional power plants (typically gas or coal) have provided key system and balancing services such as inertia. Our ambition is that, by 2025, we will have transformed the operation of the electricity system such that we can operate it safely and securely at zero carbon.

Our latest stability pathfinder document, outlines the timelines for delivering the new inertia solutions, including our intention to publish an invitation to the market to tender for services in early November 2019.

Craig Dyke, Head of Networks at National Grid ESO, said:

“The systems and processes we have in place to measure inertia are appropriate for the levels of wind and solar power currently in operation. However it’s important we plan for the future and embrace new technologies as we move towards our ambition of being able to operate the system carbon free by 2025. We believe our Stability Pathfinder is a step towards that aim and the first initiative of its kind anywhere in the world. We look forward to working with the market to implement the new solutions.”

For more information please visit the Pathfinders web page.