The rapid transition to clean energy generation (such as wind and solar), combined with the move to electricity to power heating and transportation is placing new strains on our old electricity network. We are passionate about the role that individual householders and communities can play in pushing the energy transition forward, in this case we can help out by what is known as ‘Demand Side Flexibility‘. Essentially, this means that we amend our electricity usage (the demand) to better match renewable generation (the supply), in order to reduce our carbon footprint, reduce our bills and support the energy network.
Here in Greater Manchester our local electricity network is run by Electricity North West, they have identified some key areas where the local grid is struggling and where they’re asking for help from local people. One such problem area is the grid covering the north of Marple, Mellor and Marple Bridge (see map below).
Flexible Marple?
We thought we’d start out in Marple, to see how much interest there might be from the local community. Why Marple? Well, we have a number of active Carbon Co-op members there and there’s an active local climate action group who we hope will be keen to help us test how we best communicate the issue and how big an impact we can make.
Benefits
To take part you need to have a smart meter and will get free access to our energy visualiser tool, so you can keep track of what how much energy you’ve been able to shift. You’ll also have access to our flex dashboard, so you can see what events you’ve taken part in, your total energy you shifted and also how much energy the whole community shifted together.
Depending on how successful we are we may earn money for the flexibility that we provide which could fund local community projects. For more advanced users with smart thermostats, electric vehicles, solar panels or batteries we can help you to set up automations, but the choice of whether you participate in any event will always be down to you. Your not obliged to turn down if it doesn’t suit you to do so, you can always just take part in next one.
How do I get involved?
There are actions that all of us can take to shift the times we use energy (such as when we put the washing on), but an even greater impact will be achieved by those who use electricity for heating or cooking or who charge an electric vehicle at home.
STEP 2: Spread the word – The more people involved the greater our impact, so we’d love your support inviting any local friends and neighbours you think might be interested. We’re excited to see what we can achieve by bringing the community together.
STEP 3: We’ll check with Electricity North West that your electricity supply is the catchment area and send you details of your free account to access your smart meter data.