Camlin Energy is transforming electricity network management by using real-time load data to visualise future load issues with precision. This forward-thinking approach supports smarter, more proactive network planning, helping to reduce costly reinforcements and make better use of our existing infrastructure.
As low carbon technologies (LCTs) become more widespread across the distribution grid, load patterns are growing increasingly complex. With Camlin Energy’s low voltage monitor, PRESense, Distribution System Operators (DSOs) gain powerful, data-driven insights. These insights enable proactive load management, extend the life of network assets, and help pre-empt potential issues before they arise.
Introducing PRESense & It’s role in load collection
PRESense is an edge-computing Low Voltage (LV) monitor developed by Camlin Energy. It is installed at substations and other supply points on the network, where it captures high-resolution power flow data. This data is transformed and can be analysed to identify developing problems on the network and indicate the location of network faults .
PRESense transforms granular LV network data into actionable information, providing unparalleled network visibility. These insights allow DSOs to plan effective remedial action, including network modification, traditional re-enforcement measures or replacement of cables and transformers.
The use of OFGEM load indices with PRESense devices
The Ofgem load indices, part of the RIIO-ED1 regulatory instructions and guidance, provide a standardised measure of load on the network. Data Scientists at Camlin Energy have utilised these Ofgem load indices in conjunction with load data  from PRESense devices to create detailed load profiles and identify real load issues on the network. This helps DSOs implement proactive load management strategies, optimise the health of their network assets, and predict future problems.
Substations are categorised into the following five levels according to loading:
While these measurements are usually used to identify risk for primary substations, we have extended the logic to apply a similar approach on secondary substations and individual feeders.
Feeders
Using load data from the last year, we can see that 85.9% of feeders are in the load index 1 category – indicating that they are operating within 0-80% of their loading capacity. Conversely, we can see 0.1% are in load index 5 category – showing that they have been operating at 100% capacity for at least 9 hours in the last year. Using this information, we can help customers identify which feeders are at risk, enabling proactive network intervention to take place.
Secondary Transformers
Analysis
Taking a similar approach to the previous table and using data sets from the same period, we can see that 86.1% of secondary transformers are in the load index 1 category – operating within 0-80% of their overall loading capacity. Comparatively looking at Load Index 5, we can see 0.1% are at risk– indicating that they have been at 100% capacity for at least 9 hours in the last year. Using this data network operators can identify which secondary transformers need network intervention such as cable reinforcement or redistribution of the load.
Overall, around 5% of LV feeders and secondary transformers are in band 4 and band 5. Identifying these as the most at risk can help prioritise intervention and investment to ensure the safety and reliability of the network. With increased LCT, we can track how the load indices are changing over time and ensure the network can support the growing demand.
In Conclusion
 Camlin Energy’s PRESense solution is redefining how DSOs approach load management in an increasingly complex energy landscape. By harnessing high-resolution data and integrating Ofgem load indices, PRESense delivers actionable insights that empower smarter, more proactive network decisions. The ability to pinpoint at-risk assets across both feeders and secondary transformers enables targeted intervention, extending asset life and ensuring grid resilience. As the adoption of low carbon technologies accelerates, PRESense will play a vital role in helping networks adapt, optimise performance, and meet future demand with confidence.
