SONI working alongside EirGrid, the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO) regulators and industry partners, has deployed new technology designed to increase the use of renewable energy and quicken the transition to a low‑carbon power system.

Delivered under the Scheduling and Dispatch Programme (SDP), the latest phase includes two key enhancements: SDP-02 (Energy Storage Power Stations) and SDP-04 (Wind Dispatch Improvements).

Together, these upgrades bolster control centre systems across the island of Ireland and simplify how emerging technologies are scheduled and dispatched within the Single Electricity Market.

Under SDP-02, large battery facilities can now go beyond their traditional system stability role to actively trade energy. They are able to charge when renewable output is high or prices are low and discharge at times of peak demand, cutting reliance on fossil fuels. Fully integrated into the real-time market as Energy Storage Power Stations (ESPS), they give SONI’s control room greater flexibility to balance supply and demand using renewable electricity.

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SDP-04 enhances SONI’s Wind Dispatch Tool, providing operators with improved functionality to manage renewable generation and reduce "dispatch down"—the curtailment that occurs when supply outstrips demand—so more wind and solar power can be used on the grid.

"This is a critical moment in Northern Ireland’s journey to net zero," said Alan Campbell, Chief Executive of SONI. "Renewable energy is less predictable, but this technology helps us use more wind and solar power and better match supply with demand.

"Northern Ireland has excellent renewable resources. By investing in cutting-edge technology, we can make the most of them – delivering benefits for bill payers, businesses, and the environment.

"The Scheduling and Dispatch Programme is the biggest update to Single Electricity Market rules and systems since 2018. It supports a more flexible, efficient, and low-carbon power system, while ensuring fair access for all market participants.

"With these changes, SONI is tackling wasted renewable energy and increasing the share of clean electricity used in Northern Ireland. It also gives our expert control room engineers the tools needed to manage an ever more complex power system.

"These improvements will also benefit the wider economy by creating new opportunities and making Northern Ireland more attractive to investors."