National Grid ESO launches world-first digital grid replica

9 November 2021


The UK’s National Grid ESO has launched a programme, a world first of its type, to digitise Great Britain’s energy system and advance the transition to net zero. The Virtual Energy System will be a real-time digital replica of the country’s physical energy system. This system will be a digital twin of the existing physical energy system, working in parallel to enable an accessible, unified, real-time view of every part of the GB energy system.

This virtual environment will create the ability to generate insights and new ideas and model solutions to cut real-world carbon emissions, supporting the transition to net zero while delivering long-term value to industry and consumers.

How the system will work

Development of the system begins with an open framework, with agreed access, operations and security protocols. Over time, this will be populated by existing and new digital twins – replicas of physical components of the energy system.

Each digital twin will contribute to and access real-time data on the status and operation of other elements of the system. 

This layered data will generate insight, and a virtual environment through which to innovate ideas, with the potential to transform the system and support the transition to net zero.

Fintan Slye, executive director of 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. 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 Virtual Energy System at an industry event during COP26. It will then host a free-to-access one-day online conference on 1 December, providing an opportunity for the energy industry and wider stakeholders to find out more about the programme and how to get involved with its design and development. 



Linkedin Linkedin   
Privacy Policy
We have updated our privacy policy. In the latest update it explains what cookies are and how we use them on our site. To learn more about cookies and their benefits, please view our privacy policy. Please be aware that parts of this site will not function correctly if you disable cookies. By continuing to use this site, you consent to our use of cookies in accordance with our privacy policy unless you have disabled them.