Flexibility to tackle voltage constraints on local networks

15 September 2026

Flexible demand is to be used to help manage voltage on parts of the low-voltage electricity network as rising levels of electric vehicles and rooftop solar alter local patterns of electricity use and generation.

National Grid’s distribution system operator (DSO) is introducing a Local Voltage Management service covering an initial 100 low-voltage zones across National Grid Electricity Distribution’s four licence areas.

The flexibility required will depend on the type of voltage constraint. In areas with high EV uptake, the DSO will procure demand turn-down between 17:00 and 19:00, with participating assets reducing electricity consumption during the evening peak.

Where solar PV is more prevalent, it will instead seek demand turn-up between 12:00 and 14:00 from May to August. Increasing local consumption during periods of high solar generation can help absorb more electricity locally and reduce the risk of voltage exceeding permitted limits.

Doerte Schneemann, head of flexibility markets at National Grid DSO, comments;

“This year’s tender marks an important step forward with the introduction of our first Local Voltage Management flexibility service. This new service gives us the opportunity to explore whether flexibility can help support voltage management on local networks and complement more traditional network solutions.

“We hope the insights gained will help shape the flexibility markets of the future and inform our thinking as we prepare for ED3.”

Procurement is due to open on 21 September, with contracts expected to be awarded in January 2027. The first services are scheduled to be delivered from April 2027. National Grid DSO says the trial will help establish whether flexibility can play a role in managing local voltage constraints alongside traditional network solutions.