Smart meters are being rolled out in large numbers throughout the world, with proponents claiming they are a critical step in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Yet there are significant unresolved negative reactions to smart meters, principally based on the concern that smart meters might...

Occupants of dwellings with grid-connected photovoltaic (PV) systems can often benefit financially from exporting electricity to the grid. When export prices are lower than import prices, however, occupants are incentivised to time-shift demand in order to avoid exports and reduce imports. To...

The transition to a future low-carbon powersystem will increase the need for and value ofdemand response – where demand can becurtailed or shifted in time according to thenetwork’s requirements. The electricity supplyindustry is investing heavily in ‘smart’technologies, partly based on...

Residential electrical demand response (DR) offers the prospect of reducing the environmental impact of electricity use, and also the supply costs. However, the relatively small loads and numerous actors imply a large effort: response ratio. Residential DR may be an essential part of future...

This paper explores the possible evolution of UK electricity demand as we move along three potential transition pathways to a low carbon economy in 2050. The shift away from fossil fuels through the electrification of demand is discussed, particularly through the uptake of heat pumps and...

The experimental services producer price index (SPPI) measures movements in prices charged for services supplied by businesses to other businesses, local and national government. This article shows the effects some industries are having on the top-level SPPI. It continues thequarterly feature...