TRANSITION aims to demonstrate and test potential solutions

TRANSITION aims to identify the cost, risk, and benefits of the proposed market models

TRANSITION trials are being developed to specifically inform the Open Networks Project

TRANSITION is committed to optimising learning and maintaining relevance

TRANSITION aims to develop a “proof of concept” NMF Platform

TRANSITION NMF platform will test market models produced by the Open Networks Project

TRANSITION will recruit market participants to undertake trials

TRANSITION is strongly aligned with the outputs from Open Networks

TRANSITION is the first NIC where two DNOs have worked together as partners

TRANSITION will accelerate and de-risk the transition from DNO to DSO

Stakeholder engagement is central to TRANSITION and will be crucial to its success

TRANSITION will help inform the requirements of the role of the DSO

TRANSITION will provide meaningful feedback to Open Networks

TEF

In 2017 three projects were submitted for the Network Innovation Competition that supported the transition from Distribution Network Operator (DNO) to Distribution System Operator (DSO).

These were:

TRANSITION, submitted by Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks and Electricity North West;
Electricity Flexibility and Forecasting Systems (EFFS), submitted by Western Power Distribution; and
FUSION, submitted by SP Energy Networks.

In the Project Directions issued by Ofgem for TRANSITION, EFFS and FUSION (T.E.F.), several conditions were included including the need to reduce the risk of unnecessary duplication and ensure the projects deliver complementary learning. All the project participants welcome the opportunity to collaborate and ensure that collectively, the three projects deliver best learning outcomes and value for money.

Each of the partners recognise that this document represents the first step in what will be an ongoing process to identify further areas of shared learning and opportunities to deliver a better outcome for customers as the projects progress. This process will be enabled by the new governance structure which includes regular intra-project meetings, as well as the substantive Stage Gate at the end of the development phase. Evidence which will be provided at Stage Gate, will enable Ofgem to make an informed decision on proposals to commence of the implementation phase of the projects.

Collaboration Themes

Open Network engagement
Avoid duplication in communications and stakeholder activities including consultations.

ESO engagement
Combined engagement is expected to save 30 days of NETSO time compared to original plans.

Stakeholder engagement
Common language, graphics and joint events to reduce cost and avoid confusion or fatigue.

Trials
Reduced number of physical trials, shared learning outcomes.

Software and Tools
Increased potential to share software, increased collaboration in development of algorithms and requirements.

Common Stage Gate
Major common Stage Gate prior to major development or demonstration spend. Defined Stage Gate evidence to enable decisions to stop, modify, or proceed with projects based on Phase 1 outputs.