SSEN initiates a 46MW flexible auction.

SSEN is advancing to the next stage of grid flexibility.

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks Distribution will initiate a long-term flexibility auction on 12 January 2026, aiming to secure an additional 46MW of capacity to address increasing demands on the electricity network.

The auction will remain open until 26 January and will encompass 101 locations within SSEN’s northern and southern distribution regions.

This effort builds on the 934MW of flexibility already obtained during the first half of the current ED2 price control period.

Flexibility is quickly becoming an essential aspect of grid operations.

With the rapid integration of electric vehicles, heat pumps, solar panels, and batteries, the ability to manage when and where electricity is generated or consumed is crucial for maintaining network stability and reducing costs.

Instead of upgrading cables and substations universally, flexibility enables networks to financially incentivize providers to modify demand or generation during critical times.

This approach supports smart grids and facilitates a more affordable and rapid decarbonization process.

SSEN emphasizes that this auction is carefully focused.

Their network evaluations have pinpointed specific local requirements where flexibility can enhance capacity and postpone expensive upgrades.

Paul Fitzgerald, Flexibility Manager at SSEN Distribution, stated, “SSEN adopts an efficient and targeted strategy for procuring Flexibility Services.”

He further mentioned, “Flexibility Services play a vital role in our overall network strategies.”

For providers, the opportunity is apparent. This represents a real commercial chance as well as a pathway to the future energy system.

Eligible Flexibility Service Providers can find comprehensive tender information, including postcodes, through SSEN Distribution’s long-term bidding process.