The electricity distribution network is a critical component in the journey to net zero. Our customers want to decarbonise their homes and operations, and we need to deliver a network that can facilitate their ambitions.
SSEN’s Distribution System Operator (DSO) is taking a strategic approach to developing our distribution network. As such, we have a strategic planning process to ensure that we meet the needs of our customers today while enabling pathways to net zero.
As part of this process, we’ve published our first iteration of Strategic Development Plans (SDPs) which cover both recommendations for works that need to be delivered in the shorter term alongside longer term needs that will be consulted on with stakeholders. These SDPs act as blueprints for our future plans and will each focus on a Grid Supply Point (GSP) area or a group of GSPs. They will be reviewed annually, accounting for changes to our customers’ needs.
We have now refreshed our Strategic Development Plan Methodology to reflect the feedback you have provided over the past year and the changes in the wider energy space. It is critical that we work with stakeholders to develop our future plans which is why we have published our Strategic Development Plan Methodology as draft for consultation. We would value your thoughts and input to inform our final methodology and engagement process.
The document for review is below, and you can also find it on our DSO Consultation Library web page.
The link below will take you to an online survey to capture your feedback. The questions that we’re asking are:
1.What are your thoughts on how we are incorporating tRESP outputs and how we are working with NESO? (See Section 2.3)
2.In your view, is our annual process for gathering and assessing industrial and commercial insights complementary to the NESO RESP three-year cycle? If not, what do we need to do to improve our process going forward?
3.Is there anything you think is missing from the scope of our SDPs?
4.What digital tools, data or platforms would make it easier for you to engage with and use our SDPs?
5.What are your views on our proposed process for engaging and consulting on our strategic development plans including the points in the process we will be engaging, the overall timeline and the methods of engagement?
6.Do you agree with our approach to expand the scope of SDPs to consider wider drivers for investment on the network such as asset age-related issues?
7.Are you supportive of us providing greater insights on LV needs through the SDPs as they become available?
8.Do you have any feedback on how we have consulted with you on the SDP methodology?
9.Is there anything else you’d like to add?The consultation will remain open until 8th April 2026. Thank you for taking the time to share your views with us.
Complete Survey