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T he Low Carbon Networks and Innovation (LCNI) conference, now the energy networks' de facto event for dissemination of findings from funded innovation schemes, took place last month on Electricity North West's patch in Manchester. According to the Energy Networks Association (ENA), it had more signed-up delegates than any LCNI conference to date – they've been running for six years now. The association believes this is a manifestation of the progress network companies have made in squaring up to the low carbon energy transition. The event certainly drew in a he…y crowd of delegates, along with a Network companies revealed the progress they have made in squaring up to the low carbon challenge at this year's Low Carbon Networks and Innovation conference. LCNI REVIEW KEY POINTS Energy networks have the attention of the regulator and government "Whole system" thinking is on the rise Gas networks are embracing their role in a diverse future for heat Asset performance management will change the world Third parties have a growing influence in the sector LCNI: innovation and dissemination smattering of high profile speakers – most notably Ofgem chief executive Dermot Nolan. There was also a broad church of exhibitors, large and small, who displayed solutions to network challenges ranging from advanced asset management so…ware to drones, gas leak detection devices, fault current limiters, system planning tools and energy storage technologies. Some broad themes and overall impressions were clear: Energy networks have the attention of the regulator and government For some, Dermot Nolan's keynote presentation raised concerns about the future of innovation funding, which is currently being reviewed by the regulator. However, it also gave delegates an insight into the numerous ways in which Ofgem is getting deeply involved in the challenge of creating a smart energy system. Nolan announced a range of initiatives that the regulator hopes will enable it to take an open minded and flexible approach to this challenge. One is the launch of its Future Insights programme of reports, which explore key themes such as low carbon heat and local energy markets – including opportunities for distribution system operators. Another is a new "innovation link", designed to make Ofgem and the regulated energy landscape more NETWORK / 18 / NOVEMBER 2016