GC0140: Grid Code Sandbox: enabling derogation from certain obligations to support small-scale trials of innovative propositions
What is being proposed
To enable parties to be derogated from specific Grid Code obligations in order to conduct small-scale, time-limited live trials of innovative technologies, connections, products or services.
Current status
The Panel met in March 2020 and agreed that it goes to a Workgroup. Workgroup meetings have not yet commenced as low in the prioritisation stack. 22/02/2022: Workgroup meeting to be confirmed subject to Panel prioritisation.
Details
Timeline
Analysis
GC0140 proposes a Grid Code sandbox allowing parties to be exempted from specific Grid Code obligations for small-scale, time-limited trials of innovative technologies and services. The modification has been in a workgroup since 2020 but remains deprioritised, with meetings subject to Panel prioritisation as of February 2022. It follows standard governance procedures and has cross-code implications through CUSC modification CMP341.
Why it matters
This creates a regulatory bypass mechanism that could favour well-resourced incumbents who can navigate the derogation process over smaller innovators facing barriers. As such, it adds an administrative layer rather than addressing the underlying rigidity of Grid Code obligations that stifle innovation.
Key facts
- •Small-scale, time-limited trials only
- •Standard governance route
- •Deprioritised since 2020
- •Cross-code impact with CMP341