As the UK gradually retires her fossil fuel power stations, the amount of electricity on our national grid from renewable sources increases. In 2001 it was less than 3%. That figure now exceeds 40%. While making the switch to renewable energy is key to achieving our Net-Zero goals, this transition wouldn’t be possible without energy flexibility programmes such as the UK Capacity Market.
What is the UK Capacity Market?
The UK Capacity Market is a HM Government initiative designed to protect the supply of electricity to homes and businesses during periods of peak demand. It pays large energy users to temporarily reduce or reschedule their consumption of electricity should the stability of the national electricity grid be at risk.
Since its introduction in 2014, the UK Capacity Market has never been called on. Nonetheless, enrolled businesses receive financial payments, irrespective of whether there is a grid emergency or not.
Who Can Participate in the UK Capacity Market?
Energy intensive manufacturing processes, and manufacturing infrastructure such as Combined Heat and Power (CHP), HVAC, compressors and backup generators, offer different opportunities for UK Capacity Market participation. Some businesses may find the assessment process daunting or rule it out based on assumptions around operational disruption. That’s where an experienced partner like Enel X provides valuable support.
Benefits of Participating in the UK Capacity Market and Achieving Net-Zero Goals
- Unlock Significant Financial Rewards Earn regular payments for adjusting your non-essential energy use. Businesses that cannot curtail load for operational reasons can still participate with their CHP without having to adjust production.
- Strengthen Your Sustainability Credentials Participation in the UK Capacity Market demonstrates your commitment to sustainability. By reducing reliance on fossil-fuel-based power plants, you’re contributing to a low-carbon energy future. This aligns with your Net-Zero goals.
- Maintain Focus on Your Core Business Navigating the complexities of the UK Capacity Market can be challenging. Enel simplifies the process, providing end-to-end support from registration to real-time energy management.
Why Choose Enel X for Renewable Energy Flexibility?
Enel X is part of the Enel Group, a global energy company with a rich history spanning over 60 years. In the UK and Ireland, they specialise in enabling commercial and industrial scale energy users to generate new revenues and support a greener, more resilient electricity grid.
