Blog: Stakeholder Event – Future-proofing the gas market’s data infrastructure

As the Central Data Service Provider (CDSP) and custodians of the industry's IT infrastructure, Xoserve must ensure these systems remain modern, adaptable, and compliant. Future-proofing the gas sector for net zero demands not only physical infrastructure upgrades but also a robust data system that can accommodate the complexities of the changing energy landscape.

The challenge: updating current data systems

UK Link is the backbone that connects the data systems within Britain's retail gas market. This suite, managed by Xoserve, as the CDSP, ensures the industry operates seamlessly and efficiently, adhering to the Uniform Network Code (UNC) and its IGT equivalent.

Our Change Programme updates the UK Link System to address the evolving demands of the gas market. However, SAP will discontinue UK Link’s formal support in 2027. Xoserve has the option to extend support until 2030, but we believe extended support alone will be insufficient to maintain a reliable service and that modernisation is required to prepare for the future of UK Link, until at least 2040.

Project Trident aims to achieve a simplified, adaptable solution capable of meeting future demands until at least 2040 while minimising customer impact by considering overall implementation costs and actively involving our customers in decision-making.

At the event, we set out:

• Project Trident’s core principles
• The business case for change
• Xoserve’s approach
• The next steps, including customer engagement.

A final decision has not been made as to the actions Xoserve will take to modernise the UK Link System. Instead, there are six options for consideration, ranging from doing nothing to building customised solutions.

Whatever choice is made, we will maintain high-reliability levels of CDSP services throughout the project and prioritise a phased transition over a sudden switch-over. Early implementation will be key to ensuring sufficient time for testing and delivering a UK Link solution that replicates existing functionality while exploring options to simplify industry processes and enhance data quality and access."

Steve Brittan - Xoserve's Chief Executive Officer

Future-proofing data systems

What happens now?

With support for the existing version expiring in 2027, UK Link will need to be upgraded or replaced with a new solution – one which will meet both current and future needs. This presents an opportunity to consider optimisation and rationalisation of UK Link, across its data processing capabilities and complex architecture.

To guarantee we select the most suitable solution, Xoserve will conduct a competitive procurement process, using the HM Treasury Green Book for the business case development. This approach ensures transparency, value for money, and clarity throughout the entire procurement journey.

Going forward, we will build the right capacity and capability, both within Xoserve and by partnering with others, to ensure the project’s success. Project Trident will be a collaborative effort with a tailored engagement and governance model to support decision-making.

The perspectives of our stakeholders will be critical, with the opportunity for engagement and feedback made available throughout Project Trident.

Get in touch

To give feedback regarding Project Trident or to get involved, please email the Xoserve Project Trident Customer Engagement team at communications@xoserve.com.

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