The voice of the networks
The voice of the networks
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The UK's electricity system is sometimes referred to as the national grid. In reality, it's a series of networks spread across the country and operated by different companies. These networks are made up of wires and cables that come together to take electricity from where it's generated to where it's used.
In a nutshell, transmission networks cover the long journey from where energy is produced to where it's needed in large quantities, while distribution networks take it the last mile, bringing it right to your doorstep.
The National Energy System Operator (NESO) manage the entire system. They make sure that there's enough power being generated to meet demand, which is known as "balancing the system."
The big challenge facing the UK’s energy system is decarbonisation. Network operators are investing and innovating to help enable net zero. We're connecting more renewable generation, improving and accelerating grid connections, upgrading the network to support electric vehicle charging point and heat pump installation. Network operators are continuing to invest tens of billions of pounds, and employ tens of thousands of people, right around the UK, to make this transition a reality.
Think of transmission networks as the motorways for electricity. They carry a huge amount of electricity over long distances, just like a high speed road connecting cities.
There are three transmission network operators in the UK. In England and Wales, the transmission network is operated by National Grid. In the south of Scotland, it's operated by SP Energy Networks and in the north of Scotland by Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks.
Distribution networks are like the dual carriageways and B-roads in your community. They take electricity from the transmission lines and bring it to your home, business, or any other place where you use power. These lines make sure the electricity gets to where it's needed locally.
