DSU Setup and Testing

A Demand Side Unit (DSU) is a user of electricity that EirGrid can instruct to reduce electricity demand. These are called dispatch instructions. 

Individual demand sites are typically medium-to-large industrial premises. 

When a DSU consists of more than one individual demand site, it is called an aggregated DSU. 

These are combined by a DSU Aggregator, which is a third-party company specialising in demand side participation.

DSUs that are available for demand reduction are eligible for a capacity payment in the Single Electricity Market (SEM).

To become a DSU, you must apply to both EirGrid and the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO). 

Process Document

Parties looking to set up a new DSU should follow the process outlined in the DSU Set-up Process document. This can be requested from DSU@eirgrid.com.

Application Form

A completed Application form must be submitted to DSU@eirgrid.com for review and approval.

In order to join the Balancing Market, a Balancing Market Registration pack must be sent to BalancingMarketRegistration@sem-o.com. The Balancing Market Registration pack can be found, alongside more information here on the relevant section of the SEMO website. 

Interface Agreement

An Interface agreement must be signed by both Eirgrid and the DSU. Please contact DSU@eirgrid.com for Interface agreement.

Transfer Agreement

If you are transferring an IDS from another DSU please submit a Transfer Agreement using the template below:

Once application is approved DSU must undergo testing.

Capacity Market

All DSUs that are effective in the market (have an Operational Certificate) are obligated to bid during the auction stage in the Capacity Auction process. For more information on Capacity Market Registration, Qualification and Auction process, visit the relevant page on the SEMO website. 

For further information on joining the capacity market, visit SEMO's Joining the Capacity Market page.

You can also contact the Capacity Market by email at: 

DSU Testing

A DSU must demonstrate Grid Code compliance before it becomes commercially operational. This is done through a number of Grid Code tests witnessed by EirGrid. 

We may also require testing for ongoing Grid Code performance monitoring when the unit is operational.

DSUs must submit a suitable load profile request form before carrying out Grid Code testing scheduled with us.

Grid Code Compliance Testing

Below is a list of test procedures and reports for the DSUs. 

Please make sure to use the supplied test procedure and report templates. 

DS3 testing

Providing units can apply to contract with EirGrid to provide System Services. 

To receive a contract, units must show their capabilities through the compliance and testing processes.

Signal Lists

EirGrid issues signal lists for each DSU. These templates include a list of information the DSU must provide for EirGrid to develop a site-specific signal list.