New technology allows SONI to integrate more renewables on the electricity system and accelerate race to net zero

SONI (the electricity Transmission System Operator for Northern Ireland), working with EirGrid, the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO) regulators and industry, has introduced new technology that helps Northern Ireland use more renewable energy and move faster towards a cleaner electricity system. 

As part of the new Scheduling and Dispatch Programme (SDP), two major improvements have been delivered: 

These upgrades strengthen grid control centre systems across the island and make it easier to schedule and dispatch new technologies in the Single Electricity Market. 

Storing renewable energy for when it’s needed 
Under SDP-02, SONI can now store renewable electricity during times of high production, such as when it’s very windy or sunny, and use it later when demand for electricity is high. Until now, large batteries’ main role was to help keep the grid stable. Now, they can also trade energy, charging when renewable power is plentiful or prices are low, and discharging when demand rises, reducing the need for fossil fuels. 

These batteries, called Energy Storage Power Stations (ESPS), are now fully integrated into the real-time electricity market. This means SONI’s control centre can manage supply and demand more efficiently by charging these batteries with renewable energy and utilising them on the grid as needed.

Making better use of wind and solar 
SDP-04 upgrades SONI’s Wind Dispatch Tool, giving the control centre better ways to manage renewable generation and reduce “dispatch down” – when wind energy is wasted because demand doesn’t match supply. This means more wind and solar power can be utilised on the grid. 

A major step towards net zero 
“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.” 

Further detailed information on both solutions can be found here:

Overview of SDP Solution for Battery Units V2.pdf

https://www.sem-o.com/sites/semo/files/2025-11/Guide%20to%20Rebalancing_0.pdf

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