The article argues that GB is effectively running a 240V electricity system, with up to 5 per cent of LV customers above the statutory limit and little room left to turn voltage down. It matters because phase two of the IET’s work on voltage management is now being scoped, and evidence from across the industry will shape it.
The article argues that June’s heatwave left the electricity market and the physical network pulling in different directions. A 5GW swing on the French interconnector pushed frequency down to about 49.66Hz, and the control room held the system together by hand. It matters because Ofgem is now asking whether the market can reliably “self-balance”. June suggests that trading on a “copper plate” leaves NESO to deal with physics the market ignores.
The article argues that Ofgem’s ED3 Sector Specific Methodology Decision is a genuine win for voltage management, making it a core DSO responsibility with mandatory strategy and reporting, and unlocking better flexibility, easier connections, lower bills and reduced blackout risk. It matters because the decision sets the direction but leaves the steering to the DNOs, who must now submit voltage management strategies with localised reduction targets rather than mere baselines, while Ofgem still needs to land the incentive design. It closes by inviting readers to debate it at the Voltage Matters Forum Live in Birmingham on 25 June, with all five DNOs and Ofgem confirmed in the room.