The University of Edinburgh uses the CCS framework to set up a first class demand side response operation

“The opportunity to participate in a sector leading scheme that delivers operational benefits to National Grid and reduces the net cost of our energy, at the same time, was very attractive to us. Flexitricity are a very professional organization who make themselves very easy to work with.”

David Jack, Energy Manager, The University of Edinburgh

As one of the most prestigious higher education establishments in the world, the University of Edinburgh needs no introduction. Now, this ancient learning hub that opened its doors to the first students in 1583, is embracing the distinctly modern world of demand side response - and is inspiring other public sector organisations to follow suit.

Flexitricity services

The University partnered with Flexitricity back in 2015 for short-term operating reserve (STOR) delivery and triad management, following a tendering process via the Crown Commercial Service (CCS) framework. The University now also participates in Capacity Market through Flexitricity. 

Customer benefits

David Jack, Energy Manager at the University of Edinburgh, details the key drivers for getting involved in demand side response: “We could see that we were paying more in certain parts of our bills to support market changes so similarly we should benefit from the opportunities generated too. The process is worthwhile. It shows that we are exploring every available avenue to make our energy as low priced as possible and that we are engaging with the energy supply chain in every way that we can. It also shows that we are an exemplar to other public organisations.”

"Triad rebates in excess of £50K per annum are good to see. Especially in the knowledge that the process could be repeated in other areas of the campus. Personally seeing the Flexitricity control room, and all that goes into turning an idea into a viable operational product that benefits National Grid, was very interesting.”

Next steps

The University is investing in energy efficiency across their estate and re-engineering much of their infrastructure whilst expanding the CHP networks. In parallel, they are also investigating alternative solutions that are likely to replace the CHP networks in the future. Since the University is increasing their solar PV generation capacity in the near future, the energy management team has been looking at battery storage which would open the door to participation in the frequency response and the Balancing Mechanism markets.

All performance claims made within this testimonial, both technical and financial, were true at time of writing. Claims relating to past performance of certain asset classes do not represent a guarantee of future results for assets in the same class or other asset types