Ofgem says ED3 could incentivise DSOs to deploy voltage control solutions, as problems increase

“Voltage is becoming increasingly difficult to manage across electricity networks, creating potential barriers to clean power and net zero,” according to Dr Euan Kirkmorris, Senior Technical Advisor at energy regulator Ofgem.

Presenting on a webinar to members of the recently formed Voltage Matters Forum, Dr Kirkmorris said: “High voltages on the distribution network are increasingly causing disconnections of devices such as EV chargers and PV inverters, impacting the operation of existing devices and potentially limiting their rollout.

“NESO (National Energy System Operator) is seeing increasing costs from high voltages, in part because of increased DERs (distributed energy resources) on the distribution network, leading to an injection of reactive power onto the transmission network.”

Dr Kirkmorris also told the Voltage Matters Forum, which now has more than 300 electricity industry members: “There is a role for the DSO in tackling these challenges, which requires funding for the rollout of systems and equipment to better manage voltage, as well as the right incentives framework to optimise behaviour.

“We have an opportunity in ED3 to tackle the voltage issues which are a barrier to the energy transition.”

He urged forum members to add their voices to the ED3 Framework Consultation, which began in November 2024. This will form the basis of a five-year regulatory period from April  2028 to March 2033, which will guide the performance and revenue of Great Britain’s electricity distribution network operators.

The Voltage Matters Forum was co-created in January 2025 by voltage control specialists Fundamentals and power engineering experts Threepwood Consulting. It has attracted representatives and contributions from across the electricity industry, including network distributors, technology providers, equipment manufacturers, consultants and regulators.

Fundamentals CEO Dr Jon Hiscock said: “I strongly urge anyone interested in transitioning the grid to join the Voltage Matters Forum. Members report that it is a uniquely valuable platform for sharing information and views.

“Even more importantly, it is a powerful vehicle for driving forward the voltage control initiatives which are crucial for the future of the electricity industry.”

The forum meets regularly online and the first of a series of in-person events was held in Birmingham in July 2025.