Distribution network operator UK Power Networks has secured a 100% low-carbon flexibility portfolio for the first time ever.
The latest tender round demonstrated how customers are powering the transition to a smarter, cleaner energy system to enable ‘Clean Power 2030’.
The firm awarded 20MW of capacity – enough to power over 13,000 households across London, the East, and South East – across 217 local zones to nine energy flexibility providers.
Together, they registered more than 9,000 low-carbon assets including smart electric vehicle (EV) chargers, batteries, and heat pumps.
The diverse mix of technologies highlights a maturing market that strengthens the electricity network and gives customers new ways to cut costs while contributing to net zero.
Nearly every asset came from residential and commercial customers, proving households and businesses are now actively supporting the green energy transition.
EV chargers alone accounted for 63% of the capacity awarded, showing that the electrification of transport is already a major source of local flexibility, with consumers driving change by shifting their energy use to support the network.
A green tender
Bi-annual long-term flexibility tenders are complemented by day-ahead auctions, offering customers a broader range of opportunities to participate and making the market more accessible.
UK Power Networks says it has also simplified participation by introducing a single standard contract for flexibility providers.
This framework aims to make it faster and easier for providers to join, as well as boost competition, accessibility, and value for customers.
Alex Howard, Head of Flexibility Markets at UK Power Networks DSO, comments, “Our first, fully green flexibility tender is a real milestone.
“When I started in the industry in 2015, demand-side flexibility meant a diesel generator at a factory. Ten years on, we have an increasingly diverse and cleaner set of options to manage the grid.
“By streamlining our processes and products, we’ve made it much easier for providers to take part. That means more flexibility, more innovation, and, importantly, putting money back in the pockets of customers as we work towards clean power by 2030.”
Karl Bach, co-founder and CEO of Axle Energy, adds, “It’s great to be part of UK Power Networks first 100% low carbon tender.
“The results showcase the power of distributed flexibility and the ease of using assets that people already own, like EVs and electric heating.
“This flexibility can be done quickly, while benefiting homes and businesses around the UK.”
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