A new project by UK Power Networks that analyses half-hour electricity readings aims to understand electricity demand.
Called ‘Loadscape’, the scheme reveals distinct patterns in how different sectors use electricity, with businesses showing predictable demand behaviours that vary by activity, season and time of day.
Working in partnership with Environmental Insight Partners, the project is applying AI and advanced analytics to uncover patterns from commercial and industrial customers’ use of electricity.
From schools and supermarkets to warehouses and manufacturing sites, Loadscape identifies common demand behaviours and develops detailed usage profiles that show how electricity consumption changes throughout the day, across seasons and in response to external factors.
Loadscape aims to provide a “more dynamic, evidence-based understanding of how the network is performing today, and how it is likely to perform tomorrow”, UK Power Networks said.
It will also help identify business customers for inclusion on the Business Priority Register, helping ensure they receive extra support if they experience a power cut, it added.
Luca Grella, head of innovation at UK Power Networks, said:
“Loadscape is about turning data into better outcomes for our customers. By building a clearer picture of how commercial and industrial customers use electricity, we can make faster, more informed decisions on new connections, shorten timelines, and make the best possible use of our existing network.”
Colin McKinnon, chief executive of Environmental Insight Partners, said:
“UK Power Networks is known for championing network innovation and we are pleased to be working in partnership with planning teams to help deliver key customer connection improvements and support a more resilient network.”
Image courtesy of UK Power Networks
