19/12/2024
The UK energy sector is in the midst of a transformative period. With increasing demand for renewable energy sources, the rapid expansion of electric vehicle (EV) infrastructure, and ambitious net-zero targets, developers face mounting pressure to navigate complex energy networks and identify the best opportunities.
Addressing a growing challenge
Energy developers in the UK often encounter significant obstacles when planning their projects. High-power users and energy generators alike struggle to identify substations with adequate capacity. The intricate nature of substation networks compounds this issue. For instance:- Primary substations, while abundant, often lack the voltage capacity required for large-scale energy projects.
- Even when a substation appears to have capacity, upstream constraints may render it unusable until costly and time-consuming reinforcement work is completed.
- Determining which upstream substations feed into a chosen location has traditionally been a daunting task.
Introducing the new substations filter
Substation display customisation
- Developers can now filter substations by type directly on the map, allowing for targeted searches.
- Updated icons for each substation type provide clear visual differentiation, making it easier to pinpoint relevant locations at a glance.
Upstream and downstream connections visualisation
- A new visualisation tool highlights the upstream and downstream connections of selected substations, offering critical insights into network constraints.
- This feature enables developers to assess feasibility more effectively and avoid bottlenecks before committing to a site.
Overhead lines and underground cables: additional DNO data
- Improved coverage from DNOs: Enhanced data from National Grid Distribution (formerly Western Power), UK Power Networks, Electricity North West, and Northern Powergrid now offers better visibility of overhead lines and underground cables.
- Filling gaps in open-source data: Previously, much of this information was reliant on open-source mapping, which often lacked comprehensive coverage. The inclusion of DNO-specific data significantly improves the reliability and accuracy of the data on the platform.
- Actionable insights for developers: Access to detailed data enables users to plan projects more efficiently, ensuring they avoid areas with insufficient infrastructure or outdated information.
So what does this mean for you?
These updates couldn’t come at a better time. As the UK accelerates its energy transition, competition for prime development sites is intensifying. Having access to detailed, accurate, and actionable data is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.- Identify high-potential sites quickly: Customisable filters and enhanced visual tools streamline the site selection process, saving time and resources.
- Mitigate risk: By visualising network connections, developers can anticipate and address capacity constraints before they become project roadblocks.
- Stay ahead of the curve: Expanded DNO data ensures developers have access to the most up-to-date infrastructure information, giving you a competitive edge.
Bridging the gap in energy infrastructure
The enhancements reflect a fundamental shift in how investors and developers interact with energy infrastructure data. By removing traditional barriers to information access, Nimbus is enabling a new era of smarter, more efficient energy development.
For developers in the energy sector, Nimbus is a vital tool to navigate the UK’s dynamic landscape. Whether you’re planning the next major renewable energy project or expanding EV infrastructure, Nimbus equips you with the insights needed to succeed.
To learn more about these powerful new features and start unlocking the potential of the UK’s energy future today. Book a demo to explore the powerful tools of Nimbus and discover opportunities to maximise your strategy.
