DNV GL, Hitachi EDF appointed to help further develop ETI capability in local area energy system planning

•    ETI invests to further develop its EnergyPath suite of software models
•    DNV GL and a partnership of Hitachi EDF to work on developing the EnergyPath Operations software model
•    Increases ETI’s capability to provide comprehensive local area energy system designs

Birmingham, January 14th 2015 – The Energy Technologies Institute (“ETI”) is moving ahead in the next phase of the development of its EnergyPath software modelling suite which allows for the design of cost effective local energy systems for the UK.

DNV GL and a partnership between Hitachi EDF have been appointed to work independently on a functional specification to develop the first phase of EnergyPath Operations – a software tool that will allow users to better understand the information and communications technology (ICT) solutions they will need to implement to deliver new home heating solutions.

EnergyPath Operations once developed will provide knowledge to users on how to design ICT systems, the cost implications of such designs and the viability of various systems.

DNV GL and a partnership of Hitachi EDF have been selected to work on the first phase of the project because of their expertise and track record in delivering similar projects in the energy field. They will work independently on a functional specification for the proposed model and once developed, the ETI will make a decision on the final design with delivery of the tool planned in early 2016.

Speaking about the project, Donna Gandy-Wright, Project Manager, Smart Systems and Heat at ETI said:

“This is the next important step we are taking in building a comprehensive suite of software models to help develop local area planning capabilities for the UK. With the creation of this software tool we will aim to provide confidence to the market in the viability of potential market propositions. It is important for us to understand exactly what will be required and the cost involved in developing the correct ICT solutions for future heating solutions.”

Matt Freeman, Project Manager, DNV GL added:

“Here at DNV GL, we take a great deal of pride in working at the very heart of major change within the UK energy sector and are delighted to be working with the ETI on this initiative. DNV GL sees the development of new domestic heating solutions as a major leap forward. However, in order to test and validate which solutions might work and importantly, which might not; a simulation environment is essential. Once complete, EnergyPath Operations will make it easier to assess a range of home heating solutions; and identify the most appropriate development path. It will further provide the evidence that policy makers and investors need in order to move forward with confidence,”

Andreas Larriera, Head of Hitachi Europe Smart Cities Energy Group commented:

“Hitachi is delighted to be working again with the ETI in a key delivery partner capacity to deliver EnergyPath Operations. We are bringing our global knowledge capital and core engineering experience to support the transition to decarbonizing heat in UK by simulating local energy system operations and stakeholders’ dynamics at a local level. We are committed to continue to help ETI build UK capabilities that will accelerate the development of energy efficient technologies whilst meeting consumer needs and creating growth opportunities for the UK.”