History of Smart & Fair
The Smart & Fair programme was born in 2019 out of a crucial observation: as our energy system evolves to meet net zero climate targets, we risk leaving vulnerable consumers behind.
Funded by Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks and National Grid Electricity Distribution, we set out to ensure that the transition to a smart, flexible energy system would be equitable for all. You can read more about this in our thought-piece about leaving no one behind.
Evolution of our approach
Over the years, our focus has evolved from identifying potential inequalities to actively developing solutions.
- Initial focus: Understanding the capabilities consumers need to participate in the smart energy system.
- Expanding scope: Developing tools and methodologies to assess and address emerging inequalities.
- Industry collaboration: Working with partners to use our tools and embed fairness considerations in energy innovations.
- Policy influence: Using our research to shape policy and regulations.
Key Milestones
2019 Launch and initial research
Programme inception
Development of the Smart Energy Capabilities Lens
2020 Expanding our focus
Publication of the Smart & Fair Report 1
Initiated research on consumer archetypes
Began collaboration with energy advice sector
2021 Tools and methodologies
Prototyped the Energy Choices Tool
Joined the HOMEflex project on domestic flexibility code of conduct
2022 Deepening industry engagement
Expansion of advisory board
Development of the smart energy capabilities dataset
Piloted Smart Energy Action plan
2023 Scaling impact
Demand Flexibility Service evaluation
Developed the consumer building blocks for ESO’s Future Energy Scenarios
Refreshed the consumer archetypes for Ofgem
2024 Scaling our approach
Publication of Smart & Fair Report 2
Established market monitoring with public webinar series
HOMEflex Compliance Scheme research report
Launch of the Energy Choices Tool beta version
Significant partnerships
Our work has been strengthened through collaborations with:
- Network and System Operators (DNOs, DSOs and NESO) and energy suppliers
- Technology innovators
- Consumer advocacy groups
- Housing providers
- Energy advice organisations
- Academic institutions
- Industry groups and trade associations
These partnerships have been crucial in ensuring our work remains grounded in real-world challenges and opportunities.
Smart & Fair into the future
As we continue our Smart & Fair journey, we remain committed to our founding principle: ensuring that no one is left behind in the transition to a smart, low-carbon energy system.