Enhanced coordination between transmission and distribution networks to unlock capacity for the connection of distributed generation

Within the Regional Development Programme (RDP), the UK’s first independent Distribution System Operator (DSO) of UK Power Networks (UKPN) and the Electricity System Operator (ESO) is collaborating under the Connect and Manage scheme to facilitate connections for generator customers in areas affected by transmission constraints. A significant milestone in this initiative is the introduction of the Mega Watt (MW) Dispatch Service, a market-based solution addressing pre-fault thermal constraints in the South-Eastern Power Networks (SPN). This project aims to alleviate growing regional transmission constraints by providing an alternative pathway for Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) to connect to the distribution network. This scheme has already connected 38MW of DERs and has over 1.5GW of accepted projects across the SPN region. The project's core deliverables, constituting the Minimum Viable Product (MVP), involve establishing technical dispatch solutions and contractual frameworks by collaboratively developing and integrating technical solutions (processes, data, software, and hardware systems) with industry partners. This paper aims to provide an overview of the end-to-end design of the MVP solution and Transmission-Distribution (T-D) coordination, striving for a more effective and efficient service. The solution has been successfully tested in pre-production and production environments, demonstrating its success and readiness for trial and Business As Usual (BAU) operation.