Assessment of the electricity transmission network in Bro Ffestiniog

Overview Menter Môn, in partnership with Cwmni Bro Ffestiniog, wishes to identify viable options for the production, storage and use of renewables in the Ffestiniog Valley area. This is a project to evaluate options and suggest a practical strategy for the future. The assessment will provide the funders with enough information to determine what next steps to take in order to move forward. Scope of the work To carry out an assessment of the existing electricity transport network in the Ffestiniog Valley area and create a strategy for the future creation of local smart grid networks. a) Energy sources The following are renewable energy generation technologies that the study may consider when making an assessment and strategy for the local electricity grid: • Electricity Hydro Power stations • Small Hydro Systems • Wind turbine • Solar panels • Solar thermal • Biomass • Geothermal • Anaerobic digestors • Battery storage technology b) Energy users Energy users the electricity network can consider in the assessment and strategy: • Buildings and utilities  Domestic – full time and part time homes  Public/community buildings  Industrial/ commercial / businesses • Transport  Private  Public transport  Electric vehicles  Public sector vehicles  Agricultural vehicles • Commercial activities  Production industries  Retailing businesses  Processing products  Tourism sector including hospitality  Agricultural sector c) Geographical extent The geographical guidelines for assessing the current grid network and creating a smart grid strategy is considered as a rough guide, and as a means of giving guidance only. The Ffestiniog Valley area is seen as one that starts on the southern slopes of the Moelwyni and runs south to include the communities of Blaenau Ffestiniog, Tanygrisiau, Llan Ffestiniog, Maentwrog, Gellilydan, Trawsfynydd, Llandecwyn, Talsarnau, Penrhyndeudraeth, Minffordd and Portmeirion. Generally, the route of the Dwyryd river is followed on its way to Tremadog Bay, including the territory of the tributaries and sub-rivers that join it. When making an assessment of the current grid it should be noted where there are presently electricity lines, and an alternative form of arrangement. Methodology Those contracted to complete the study and strategy will be expected to identify the existing network and the potential of creating a smart grid in the Ffestiniog Valley. The client and partners will be happy to assist in this task as far as possible. An important part of the work is to connect renewable energy producers and local energy users and how to fill any existing gap in the network. a) Cost The study does not have to consider the costs of developing or adapting the electricity grid network. However, a reference to sources of investment that could be followed in order to implement the strategy's recommendations would be useful. b) Implementation timetable The strategy should identify any barriers to developing or adapting the electricity network and suggest a practical timetable for the development of a smart grid. The estimates can be flexible, but models of how the electric grid network could look in 2020, 2025 and 2030 are suggested. c) Effects Reference can be made to the likely effects on the local environment, society, and economy when developing or adapting the electrical grid network. Models should be used to estimate the amount of carbon emissions that could be saved using local energy; how many direct and indirect employment opportunities are created and what the effect of this would be on income and migration to and from the area; and how the current community can own and benefit from renewable energy development. d) Outputs The study will include three sections: • The current electricity network in the Ffestiniog Valley  The present network should be clearly shown and reference made to the capabilities of the network to transport and distribute electricity. • The energy users in the Ffestiniog Valley who can be linked to a smart grid  Identify energy users and future demand and how it can be related to the potential of renewable energy production and distribution. In addition, consideration should be given to whether the area can attract new businesses and industries into the valley as a result of the potential of clean and cheap energy generation. • Strategy with recommendations  The strategy will suggest practical steps showing how the development or adaptation of the electrical grid network can increase the amount of renewable energy that is distributed and used, in models that benefit the community. e) Format A written report is expected in digital format in A4 size, on a Word and PDF program format. The report to include an executive summary outlining the contents of the three sections. The author is welcome to use graphics, tables and pictures throughout the report to assist the comparisons. It will also be possible to include an index at the end of the report. The report will contain clear recommendations that will appear together in a list close to the start of the report. In addition, recommendations will appear in the text with clarification and logic. NOTE: To register your interest in this notice and obtain any additional information please visit the Sell2Wales Web Site at www.sell2wales.gov.wales The buyer has indicated that it will accept electronic responses to this notice via the Postbox facility. A user guide is available at www.sell2wales.gov.wales Suppliers are advised to allow adequate time for uploading documents and to dispatch the electronic response well in advance of the closing time to avoid any last minute problems.