Issue link: https://fhpublishing.uberflip.com/i/936447
NETWORK / 5 / FEBRUARY 2018 L E A D E R C O M M E N T C OMING SO ON ∙ The path to electrifi cation ∙ Heat Trust ∙ Flexis project update YOUR NET W ORK Give the people what they want Let us know what projects, technologies and topics you want us to cover. Have your say Express your opinions and respond to content by blogging or writing for the magazine. A social Network Follow us on Twitter: @Network_mag Email the editor: alecpeachey@fav-house.com Alec Peachey alecpeachey@fav-house.com COLLABORATION MATTERS The importance of gas and electricity network operators working together is something that's been highlighted to me during my short time in the industry. I've previously used this space to highlight the importance of innovation, but without collaboration the driving forward of new ideas is something that could be halted. The continued sharing of information and ideas is vital if the duplication of change across all networks is going to continue at the pace we're currently seeing. In this issue there's a focus on data analytics, where the importance of sharing data between network operators is highlighted. Randolph Brazier, head of innovation at the Energy Networks Association, comments: "Traditionally the networks have been in competition. Today, it is about talking with each other, and asking what access to data is needed: how o- en do you need the data? Do you need it in real time?" The sharing of data is just one factor that can help avoid the expensive costs associated with reinforcing a network. Just one example of where collaboration matters. One event where there will be plenty of collaboration on show will be at this year's Future Networks Conference which is taking place at the Birmingham Conference and Events Centre on 18 April. The event is designed to help set out the path towards the UK's future energy system to ensure changing energy needs and climate goals are met. Featured speakers include: Chris Clarke, director of asset management & HSE, Wales & West Utilities; Jonathan Brearley, senior partner, networks, Ofgem; Stewart Reid, head of DSO and innovation, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks; Mark Dale, innovation engineer, Western Power Distribution; Biljana Stojkovska, project manager, power potential, National Grid. For more information visit https://event.networks.online/future/ management & HSE, Wales & West Utilities; Jonathan Brearley, senior partner, networks, Ofgem; Stewart Reid, head of DSO and innovation, Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks; Mark Dale, innovation engineer, Western Power Distribution; Biljana Stojkovska, project manager, power For more information visit https://event.networks.online/future/