Using AI to manage applications for connecting low-carbon devices

Read more about the award-nominated work Baringa and ENA have done, using AI, here.

In the drive for net zero, thousands of heat pumps, solar panels and EV chargers are being installed in homes across the country.  With annual applications increasing at a significant rate, Distribution Network Operators (DNOs) are working hard to facilitate rising demand. However, with differing processes and procedures across regions, installers are sometimes waiting weeks for approval to connect, slowing down the clean-energy transition.

With growing calls for processes to be standardised, Baringa and Energy Networks Association (ENA), representing seven of the UK DNOs, came together to develop and launch the first central industry platform to transform the way registrations for low-carbon devices are managed.

A single solution for seven different networks

Each of the seven different networks has its own data structures, systems and processes. To build trust and deliver a single platform that worked for everyone, we set up a clear framework for communicating and decision-making, balancing the interests of each DNO with the need for fast, consistent delivery.

A key challenge was to work out how to speed up decisions for installers. All connection applications had to go through an assessment process, agreed with all DNOs, and most required a photo of the cut-out that regulates power supply into the property. This photo was critical to ensure the supply was safe to take on additional load at the property. There was a perfect opportunity to use AI to review the cut-out photos, enabling thousands of quick-win applications to be processed more efficiently in the future, giving DNOs more time to focus on the harder to solve cases. Our team used thousands of images to train new AI models to check the images and validate decisions.  Powered by Baringa's cloud platform, these models can process, scan, and classify 10,000+ images per hour.

Capacity to deliver near-instant decisions for up to five million applications a year

The new Connect Direct platform, incorporating AI, transforms the application process for connecting low-carbon technologies. It gives installers near-instant decisions on their applications so they can get on with building low-carbon technologies into everyday life. For networks, it slashes the burden of processing thousands of applications and delivers a sharper picture of devices connecting to the grid. These vital transformations will be key to accelerating the journey to net zero.