The establishment of a CIDDB does not require starting from scratch. Several existing institutions already play important roles in the governance of energy system standards, and the CIDDB should be designed to build on and complement these existing structures.
10.1 The British Standards Institution (BSI)
The BSI has been appointed by the UK government to facilitate a new governance arrangement for standards supporting energy system digitalisation. Specifically, BSI has been asked to take on a new role governing the Common Information Model (CIM) standards that are central to the EnergyOS information layer. This is a significant and welcome development, and it provides a natural institutional anchor for the broader EnergyOS governance model.
BSI's role in the CIDDB model would be to provide the formal standards governance infrastructure — the processes for developing, maintaining, and publishing EnergyOS standards — while the CIDDB provides the strategic direction, architectural coordination, and enforcement functions.
10.2 Ofgem
Ofgem, as the independent energy regulator, would play a critical role in the EnergyOS governance model. Ofgem's open letter on energy digitalisation governance demonstrates its recognition of the need for better architectural coordination. In the CIDDB model, Ofgem would provide the regulatory mandate for EnergyOS compliance, ensuring that all licensed market participants implement the EnergyOS standards and that the CIDDB has the authority to enforce its decisions.
10.3 NESO
NESO, as the National Energy System Operator, would be a key participant in the CIDDB governance structure. NESO's existing programmes — the Virtual Energy System, the Data Sharing Infrastructure, and the Energy Sector Digitalisation Plan — provide important building blocks for EnergyOS. NESO should continue to develop and operate these programmes, but within the architectural framework set by the CIDDB.
10.4 IEC and International Standards Bodies
The IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) is the primary international standards body for the energy sector, and the source of the CIM and other key standards that underpin EnergyOS. The CIDDB should maintain a close working relationship with the IEC, ensuring that UK EnergyOS standards are aligned with international standards and that UK expertise contributes to the development of international standards.