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Mayor of Greater Manchester visits the nerve centre of Britain’s digital energy system

Today we welcomed Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, to the heart of Britain’s digital energy system. The DCC’s CEO, Angus Flett, led the Mayor on a tour of our facilities, including the Technical and Security Operations Centre, which provides a picture of the smart meter roll-out and the health of the data network in near-real time. The Mayor also toured the DCC’s testing facility for smart devices, which is one of Europe’s largest.

The DCC network supports consumer protection and enables Britain to make the fullest use of renewable energy. It has a vital role to play in helping Britain achieve its Net Zero target by 2050, through the encrypted data it carries on behalf of its customers, such as energy suppliers and distribution network operators. The platform and the data it carries are enabling the digital transformation of Britain’s energy network and optimal use of devices such as solar panels, heat pumps, electric vehicles, and home energy storage.

Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, commented:

“I was delighted to learn that the heart of Britain’s digital energy system resides in Manchester. Smart meters have a critical role to play in helping make Manchester’s energy system greener and more affordable, making better use of renewable energy. They are also pivotal in delivering targeted measures to alleviate fuel poverty. It is Britain’s largest and most secure private communications network that currently connects over 14 million homes.”

Angus Flett, CEO of the DCC, said:

“The DCC is proud that our operational headquarters is in Manchester, with its ambition to be the nation’s greenest city region. It’s home to some of Britain’s leading digital companies providing hi-tech, well-paid employment and training opportunities. The DCC plays a pivotal role supporting the energy transition and the UK’s effort to combat climate change. Our network is already providing critical data that’ll be needed to manage future energy demand. People want to move away from fossil fuels that damage the planet and make better use of renewable sources like solar and wind power - our network is the digital backbone of that new energy system. Being based in an environmentally aware city like Manchester is ideal for the DCC, as we fulfil our mission to make Britain more connected so we can all lead smarter greener lives.”

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