Preparing the foundations for a low-carbon power system

Decarbonising the all-island electricity networks requires more than connecting new renewable generation. New system services and market arrangements need to be introduced to maintain a secure and reliable electricity system as the generation mix evolves.

The Utility Regulator plays an important role alongside the Commission for Regulation of Utilities, SONI, and EirGrid in delivering key initiatives supporting the transition to a lower-carbon electricity system, including the procurement of Low Carbon Inertia Services (LCIS) and the delivery of the Strategic Markets Programme (SMP).

LCIS projects enable the deployment of synchronous condensers at strategic locations across the all-island power system. As conventional thermal generators are increasingly displaced by renewable generation, the system loses important sources of inertia and reactive power support.

Synchronous condensers help provide these essential services, maintaining system stability and enabling the power system to operate securely with higher levels of renewable generation. These projects are also helping to shape how essential system services are procured in a power system increasingly powered by renewable generation.

By establishing competitive arrangements for the delivery of LCIS, these projects aim to ensure that consumers receive long-term value while enabling the system operators to access the capabilities needed to maintain system security.

Alongside this work, the SMP is delivering reforms to the systems and market arrangements that underpin the all-island electricity market.

The programme will modernise these arrangements to ensure they can accommodate a changing energy landscape characterised by higher levels of renewable generation, increased electrification and greater interconnection with neighbouring markets. One of the key developments supported by the SMP is the Celtic Interconnector, the planned electricity link between the island of Ireland and France.

Increased interconnection can strengthen security of supply, broaden access to electricity markets and facilitate the integration of renewable generation across Europe. By enabling the necessary market and systems changes, the SMP will help ensure the all-island market is ready to realise the benefits of this important infrastructure.

Together, the procurement of LCIS and delivery of the SMP demonstrate the importance of regulatory and industry collaboration in addressing some of the most complex challenges facing the power system.

Through its contribution to these initiatives, the Utility Regulator is helping to ensure that the all-island electricity market and networks are equipped to accommodate higher levels of renewable generation, maintain security of supply, and deliver long-term benefits for consumers.

To find out more about the Utility Regulator, visit:

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