NI electricity users to gain from new system

Northern Ireland electricity users are set to benefit from a new system aimed at allowing greater control of the power supply across the region.

Implemented by Belfast-based software and consultancy group Kainos, the system will allow Northern Ireland Electricity (NIE) to manage the power supply more efficiently when unexpected demands are placed on the grid or when faults arise.

Mr Robin Greer of NIE said the company's 700,000 customers would benefit from the improved system, known as a generation dispatch system (GDS), through tighter financial control of the power supply.

"When unexpected demands are made on the grid, NIE has to find the extra power or quickly reroute power away from damaged sections," said Mr Greer.

"Our investment in the GDS will help us control unpredictable costs and maintains our pressure on costs and electricity prices."

Kainos managing director Mr Brendan Mooney said the company was delighted with the partnership.

"Our GDS solution offers NIE the opportunity to significantly enhance the effectiveness of their processes and ultimately their customer service experience," he said.

The Office for the Regulation of Electricity and Gas published its final proposals for NIE's transmission and distribution price control for the next five years.

Electricity regulator Mr Douglas McIldoon proposed a new approach to more effectively align the interests of customers, the environment, employees and shareholders.