The National Grid Energy System Operator (ESO) has announced its plans to build a digital twin of the entire UK energy system.
The Virtual Energy System (VES) will work in parallel with its physical equivalent to enable an accessible, unified, real-time view of every part of the UK’s power network.
ESO aims to use the ‘twin’ to share data, model, and predict scenarios that support the decarbonisation of the energy system.
According to ESO, the VES will have “agreed access, operations, and security protocols” to allow partners access.
Engineers would then build this out using existing and new digital twins, each providing real time data.
Fintan Slye, executive director at National Grid ESO, said: “Great Britain’s energy system is made up of multiple component parts which combine and interact to deliver the energy we need.
“Whilst the journey towards a carbon-free future has already begun, if the UK is to meet its 2050 net-zero target, it’s vital the whole energy industry works towards decarbonisation together.
“As we evolve and transition to a greener future, we’ll need to respond to a range of future challenges. And how we innovate and adapt the energy system will require a range of tools, which is where the Virtual Energy System comes in – a shared, digital national asset to help optimise the route to net zero.”
National Grid ESO will be launching the VES at an industry event during COP26 this month.
Image credit: National Grid ESO
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