Advanced Electric Power Utilities

DSO collaborations play a significant role in enhancing electric power utilities by effectively integrating distributed energy resources (DERs), such as electric vehicles and heat pumps. These collaborations help ensure grid stability and support efforts toward decarbonization.

As "energy demands become more complex, utilities need to adapt by investing in capabilities that align with Canada’s evolving power landscape; by implementing DSO frameworks, Canadian utilities can flexibly meet the increasing energy needs of customers while also reducing operating costs."

Traditional utility models often struggle to accommodate these changes, whereas DSO models represent a significant shift in managing and optimizing energy distribution. These models provide essential advantages, such as seamless integration of new solutions and the ability to quickly respond to fluctuations in energy supply. Moreover, EY provides a "visual representation of a DSO ecosystem that can illustrate how DERs, grid-edge technologies, and various stakeholders can effectively collaborate, emphasizing the importance of partnerships in building a sustainable energy future for Canada."

Image Credit: EY