Improving processes for Congestion Management
Grid congestion occurs when the electricity network’s capacity is insufficient to meet demand. This is a persistent challenge in the energy sector that will remain relevant for years to come. DSOs are obligated to implement solutions for congestion such as congestion management, which requires a significant effort.
This Dutch DSO asked Magnus Energy subsidiary Ciratum to help develop, optimise and implement efficient processes for congestion management. With the goal to design a future-proof system, able to handle the growing workload while simultaneously ensuring smooth daily operations.
Building the foundation for congestion management
The energy transition is driving rapid changes in electricity use and production, with more renewable sources and decentralised generation entering the grid. This shift has led to new operational pressures for DSOs, requiring efficient and scalable processes. A recently introduced congestion management grid code further increased the administrative and technical workload, requiring DSOs to adopt flexible approaches to managing available capacity.
To comply with these regulations and keep up with demand from the market, well-defined, scalable and transparent processes were needed. Allowing teams to manage congestion effectively and sustainably.
Analysis, improvement and integration of processes
Ciratum supported this DSO through a structured, collaborative approach to process improvement:
- Process analysis: A structured Business Process Management (BPM) approach was used to map and analyse existing processes, identifying opportunities for optimisation.
- Stakeholder alignment: Close coordination with key stakeholders ensured the new processes matched operational needs and regulatory requirements.
- Implementation guidance: led the roll-out of the improved congestion management processes, working closely with multiple teams and product owners, including Contract Management, Data Access, Compensation, and Billing.
This collaborative method allowed the client to clearly visualise interdependencies across teams and ensure a smooth transition from process design to operational execution.
Sustainable processes ready for the future
The project delivered a fully implemented and self-sustaining congestion management process that strengthens the client’s ability to manage grid constraints effectively. Through clear process definitions and strong stakeholder engagement, the implementation ran smoothly and improved internal coordination across departments.
As a result, the DSO now has:
- A clearer understanding of its essential congestion management processes.
- Streamlined coordination between departments, reducing inefficiencies.
- Processes that are scalable, compliant, and ready to meet future challenges.
This new way of working ensures the organisation can operate congestion management more effectively, supporting a reliable and resilient energy system for years to come.
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