The Stream partners are working towards two key milestones in the period from September 2023 to April 2024; delivering a minimum viable product (MVP) for initial open data releases in December 2023 and a functional platform in April 2024.

Stream’s Advisory Groups provide vital guidance and feedback to Stream’s workstreams as the programme moves forward in the Implementation Phase. These groups include subject matter experts from water companies and other industry stakeholders.

Here is a summary of what was discussed during the Oct/Nov meetings:

Steering Group – 8 Nov

• It was approved that Affinity Water have joined Stream.
• Members responded to a survey on the priorities for Stream at 3, 6 and 12 months. It was noted the highest priority selected by members were:
  • 3 months – Find flag-ship use case(s) based on data user needs to illustrate the data value chain and business case for data interoperability. 
  • 6 months – Lay foundations for data governance and interoperability align with the national strategy.
  • 12 months – as at 6 months.
• It was agreed that the domain name for Stream would be chosen and purchased outside of the Steering Group.
• It was noted that “Open data roadmap – propose Stream act as vehicle for Open data forum, custodian of artefacts created as result of roadmap – decision taken outside of steering group with member companies, in consultation document with Water Uk in december “
• Updates from the Stream programme delivery of MVP and Day 1 platform and launch were noted.
• The following potential risks were noted with a request to Steering Group members to help mitigate them:
  • Not gaining signed collaboration agreements with water companies
  • Not maintaining continued engagement between water companies and project partners.
• An update on Stream’s risk registration process was noted. Stream’s main risks were also discussed and it was agreed that action should be taken in good time to address ongoing risks that could delay the programme.
• Updates from AG1 & AG2 October/November meetings were noted.

This group will be meeting again in December 2023.

Market & User Needs Advisory Group – 24 Oct

Top 5 use cases as prioritised in the meeting:

1. EUC8 Effective cross-industry works planning to reduce disruption
2. EUC33 Identification of areas at risk of distress (due to low water levels and/or poor water quality so that appropriate action can be taken
3. EUC12 Reduce carbon footprint of wastewater treatment plants
4. EUC30 Identify areas where water supply may come under pressure, such that targeted preventative and remedial action can be taken
5. EUC3 Determine how changes in population / climate / infrastructure may propagate into rivers by using influent data to back-calculate sewer catchment characteristics

Key insights:

• We heard from Sia Partners of the process overview for the definition, prioritisation, and scoring of day 1 use cases 
• Icebreaker One presented 12 use cases to the group, which has been narrowed down from a long list of 40 use cases. The other use cases are in a use case backlog to be reflected upon after day one live service. 
• Use cases were narrowed down due to: use case duplication, reliance on shared rather than open data, clarification required on some details, and complexity of datasets required
• Some use case ideas were mentioned multiple times, including: cleaning up the waterways in most efficient and effective way, prediction asset failure, reduction in water consumption, reduction of wastewater environmental impact, enable wild swimmers and other water users to know where it is safe to use water for leisure, early warning system for potential water quality issues

This group will meet again in January 2024.

Technical Requirements & Operating Model

2 Oct

• A review of the definition of Open Data and the Data Spectrum was given and its relation to Stream was noted and discussed.  It was noted that while Stream is initially focusing on Open Data in order to do one thing well, there was some interest in exploring whether Shared Data could bring additional value at a later point (See point below).
• An action was created for IB1 to ask the User Needs Advisory Group to identify a shared data use case for the research team to begin expanding.
• Progress and planned work from the data standards working group was noted, with three aims: to understand the standards already being used; how Stream can adapt these to be used by water companies in the UK; and working with water companies on adopting them.
• It was noted that the datasets workstream is in the process of procuring UC12 data (drinking water quality data) from the Stream water companies and has developed a repeatable process for collecting data from the water companies which can be adapted continuing MVP and Day 1
• An action was created for IB1 (w/ advice from Stream team & AG) to bring in non-water company stakeholders into use case identification and prioritisation, particularly to bring in the voice of experience from the energy sector. 
• It was noted that the technical workstream has developed a plan to build a simple data storage solution with a web front end to allow customers to download data in the required format. Subsequent aims to collect feedback data and give Stream a distinct identity.
• It was recommended by AG members that existing open source technology could be used more efficiently than building a solution from scratch for the MVP platform –  particular references were made to CKAN. An action was created for the Stream technical team to discuss if this should be used rather than building a new platform.

7 Nov

• We heard a cybersecurity update presented by Aiimi and the action will be closed if there are no further questions.
• We heard updates from Aiimi on the dataset procurement and feasibility process and the review of water company data triage processes.
• We heard from Michael from SSE, on their open data journey within the energy industry.
• There was a discussion on Trust Framework and it was agreed that building data standards is the initial first step needed for Stream. It was noted this should build on the standards which already exist within the water companies.

This group will meet again in February 2024.

Updates were given on:

• Positive political support & the evolving political landscape
• Progress across each of the Advisory Groups (AG)
• Technical progress

Key insights:

• The direction and progress of Perseus was approved by the Steering Group
• It was noted that Perseus is in a really good position as we come to the end of 2023 and for COP but that changes to government ministers and the upcoming election are challenges.
• It was noted that Ofgem has published their data strategy, focusing on a data sharing infrastructure, centering on a Trust Framework
• It was noted that AG1:
  • Role is to determine what Perseus ‘should’ do and other AGs to work out ‘how’
  • Role of AG1 is to determine how do we get the information from a aggregators
  • We have developed all links in the chain to deliver automation of location-based emissions at half-hourly resolution.
  • We have developed a location-based methodology. Based on MPANs, a unique ID for each smart meter.
  • Use cases: Small businesses, Banks, Carbon accounting, Audit, Regulators/policy makers
• It was noted that AG2’s scope has been to define what’s needed to deliver the demonstrator and consider how the use cases would affect infrastructure and tech
  • It was noted that FAPI is the right approach
  • It was noted that connectedness should be included in assurance processes
• It was noted that AG3 has discussed terminology e.g. use of ‘permission’, the nature of the data and establishing appropriate regimes for a standardised and repeatable process.
• The granularity of data for banks was raised, it was noted that a high granularity of data is necessary to ensure insights are correct and unlock capital.
• A question on the number of use cases was raised, it was noted that Perseus would focus on initial use cases, create sandbox environments and look at consequences and impacts.
• It was noted that AG4 has focused on establishing long-term foundations for communicating Perseus and mobilising strong communications from IB1, B4NZ, AG and SG members
  • It was noted that the following goals have been established:
    • Build trusted reputation
    • Build clear awareness of the value of programme
    • Opportunities for engagement
• It was noted that AG5 has reviewed policy issues and established five top priorities:
  • Identifying and addressing regulatory issues that will affect demo
  • Mapping data protection issues relating to Perseus
  • Exploring policy implications of types of data being handled
  • Defining rules around interoperability to ensure Perseus works seamlessly with accounting platforms
  • Identifying and addressing barriers to data access e.g. landlords unwilling to share energy data
• It was noted that there will be a Perseus event during COP on Sunday 3^rd December at 7.30pm at the UK Pavilion, where the project will have governmental support.
• It was noted that the plan for Perseus in 2024 will be to go from demonstration to pilot phase.
• It was noted that, while they are both instrumental in delivery, IB1 and B4NZ will maintain separation of membership, plans and funding from 2024
• It was noted that the objective for the end of the year is to finish the formal business plan
• It was noted that volunteers are welcome in forming a subset of the SG focused on financial governance and risk for 2024

Attendees:

Principal: Heather Buchanan, Co-Founder, Bankers for Net Zero

Chairs:
Gavin Starks, CEO, Icebreaker One
Tony Greenham, Director of Sustainability, British Business Bank

Steering group members:

Alex Veitch, Director of Policy and Public Affairs, British Chambers of Commerce
Charles Wood, Deputy Director Policy, Energy UK

Charlie Merser, Deputy Policy Director, Startup Coalition

Engineering and Machinery Alliance

Jennifer Tankard, Commercial Finance Leader, UK Finance

ICAEW

AG Co-chairs:

Andrew Griffiths, AG5 Co-chair, Planet Mark

Chris Martin, AG3 Co-chair, Pinset Masons

Duncan Oswald, AG1 Co-chair, Sage

Frank Wales, AG2 Co-chair, Icebreaker One

Laura Townsend, AG4 Co-chair, Icebreaker One

Observers:

Dan Altman, Net Zero Business Engagement Lead, DESNZ

Miriam Koreen, Senior Counsellor on SMEs, OECD
Sarah Kemmitt, Lead Secretariat, UNEP FI

Vikas Aggarwal, Regional Head of Public Affairs, ACCA

IB1 team:

Gea Mikic, Programme Director; Zoe Swiderski, Senior Project Manager; Jakob Howard, Bid and Sales Coordinator; Poppy Joyner, Project Support

B4NZ team:

Elliot Cyriax, Head of Strategy & Programmes; Eleanor Crabb, Head of Engagement

Apologies:

Adam Jackson, Director of Policy, Innovate Finance

Alexandra Hall-Chen, Institute of Directors

Catherine Westoby, Net Zero SMEs Lead, BEIS/DESNZ

Irene Graham, ScaleUp Institute

Jack Rowley, Policy Manager, Lending Standards Board

Martin Traynor, Small Business Crown Representative, Cabinet Office

Michael Izza, CEO, ICAEW

Sara Tomley, SME Lead, Confederation of British Industry

Sarah Tennison, Head of Impact and Lead on Financing Net Zero, Innovate UK

Chris Gentle, Senior Advisor New Business Ventures, World Energy Council

Perseus Steering Group

Perseus AG1 User Needs & Impact Advisory Group

Perseus AG2 Technical Infrastructure Advisory Group

Perseus AG3 Data Licensing & Legal Advisory Group

Perseus AG4 Communications & Engagement Advisory Group

Perseus AG5 Policy Advisory Group

Key insights:

• Survey methodology & results were noted:
• Objectives reviewed in terms of whether the AG must; should; could do it; a different group should lead it; and it is not important.
• Top 5 policy objectives were agreed and the scope for the group was discussed:

1. Identifying and addressing any regulatory issues that will affect scaling the demonstrator for energy data sharing.
2. Exploring the policy implications of the types of data / sustainability metrics being handled by Perseus, including Data Protection issues, ensuring that SMEs have control of their confidential data.
3. Defining rules around interoperability to ensure that Perseus systems work seamlessly with accounting applications, banking platforms, energy companies etc.
4. Identifying and addressing barriers to data access / measurement for SMEs (e.g. landlords being unwilling to share energy data).
5. Guidelines for competition and innovation to ensure access for a diverse range of third party sustainability analysis firms

• The Perseus Scope and Advisory Group cross over was discussed
  • It was noted that there would be overlaps between the different AGs; they will crystallise next year and help us set up additional processes to drill into the details
• The following points were discussed regarding the scope and size of the challenge e.g.
  • Data being made available to distinguish between sole trader and non sole trader
  • Data being tied to a known register, to avoid relying on the user having to de-code
  • Ensuring organisations understand the business benefits of having data reported for them
  • Aiming for a many-to-many approach
• The following points on implementation were discussed:
  • Gaining access to smart meter data
  • Constraints around access to tariff information which may or may not be fit for purpose. It was noted that this could have implications on green tariffs and how supplier emissions might be audited.
  • How do we deal with green tariffs?
  • SME has system to access smart meter data
  • The implications of SMEs changing energy suppliers part way through the year
  • Source data: do we need it to be assurable? / should the gathering be automated?

Attendees

Co-chairs

Gavin Starks, Founder & CEO, Icebreaker One

Andrew Griffiths, Director of Policy and Partnership, Planet Mark

Members

Andrew Dakers, Chief Executive, West London Business

Hannah Gilbert, ESG Senior Manager, British Business Bank

Ian Sutherland, CFO and Head of Net Zero, Tide

Jago Corry, Policy Associate, Innovate Finance

Jane Lucy, CEO & Co-Founder, Perse Energy

Madhuban Kumar, CEO, Carbon Laces

Key insights

• The draft purpose for data sharing in the Perseus demonstrator was discussed by the group, producing the following points:
  • The Perseus project aims to enable SMEs to automate reporting their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions accurately and with low friction.
  • The Perseus demonstrator aims to illustrate how the infrastructure of this system works by trialling the flow of electricity consumption data – one specific type of data necessary for GHG reporting. To do this:
    • Phase 1 of the demonstrator will enable raw energy consumption data from SMEs to be shared with carbon accounting providers to support calculation of GHG emissions. 
    • Phase 2 of the demonstrator will enable onward sharing of derived data concerning SME GHG emissions with financial institutions to support SME access to green financial products and/or to enable banks to calculate the GHG emissions of their service and lending portfolios.
  • Sharing sensitive primary data types (e.g. electricity consumption data) is necessary for Perseus implementation because it underpins accurate GHG reporting processes that can account for the specificities of different business types, operations, and choices.
  • Implementing Persues will drastically simplify processes of sharing sustainability data for GHG reporting in a manner that is free to SMEs at the point of use. Improvements to the ease, speed and trustworthiness of GHG reporting will support the low carbon transition by enabling SMEs to build an accurate picture of their emissions profile, assess options for change, and access supportive green financing.
• It was noted that when using the ICO framework, it does not mean that personal data regulations will apply in every case.
• It was noted that the following points were explored in relation to developing a Data Sharing and Licensing Framework mode for the Perseus Business Case:
  • Key characteristics of data providers, data users and a contractual framework
  • Barriers: regulatory restrictions, data protection law, competition law and commercial considerations
• It was noted that automation within the contractual framework for sharing data would be a key element of ensuring the process is seamless and avoids chain liabilities.

Attendees

Co-chairs

Chris Martin, Partner, Pinsent Masons

Emily Judson, Associate Researcher, Icebreaker One

Members

Madhuban Kumar, CEO, Carbon Laces

Mathias Karady, VP, Head of ESG Product, Sage

Daniela Menzky, Chair, Climate Essentials

Jane Lucy, CEO & Co-Founder, Perse Energy

Rick Curtis, Smart DCC

Andrew Jackson, Managing Director, Swishfund Ltd

Apologies

Simon Carroll, Partner, BP Collins

Key meeting insights:

• It was agreed that the following outputs have been made by the AG:
  • Defined our communications goals
  • Agreed that the story we’re telling focuses on the value of SME emissions data…
  • …but that our priority audience right now is banks and corporates to encourage them to join Perseus as members
  • Highlighted the need for a clear and consistent set of messages, and developed these
  • The most effective way to communicate Perseus is through the voices of members, and made a collective communications plan to coordinate this
• A list of communications outputs to be published ahead of COP by AG members was noted
• It was agreed that the communications needs for Perseus in 2024 would be a focus of the next AG meeting with input from the business case to be agreed by AG1 (User Needs)

Attendees

Co-Chairs

Laura Townshend, Head of Communications, Icebreaker One

Zarina Banu, Head of PR and Communications, Tide

Members

Conrad Langridge, Sage

Nika Safonova , Product Enablement Lead,Cogo

Rick Curtis, SmartDCC

Stephen Dury, Vice President, Innovation, FinTech, Strategy & Sustainability, Capgemini Invent

Vaz Nahl, Head of ESG, Capital Markets, Capgemini Invent

Apologies

Andrew Jackson, Director of Policy, Swishfund Ltd

Anna Campbell, Head of Client Engagement & Delivery, Climate Essentials

Ash Goddard, Director & Facilitator, Climate Clarity

Hannah Cool, Director ESG Transformation, PwC

Puneet Sandhu, Product Director, Consumer, Sage

In November, we convened the second Perseus Technical Infrastructure meeting, co-chaired by Normative and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the strawman and what we will be bringing to COP. Additionally, the group covered technical implementation and scale barriers. The goal of this meeting was to endorse Advisory Group 2’s scope and technical outputs to date.

Key meeting insights 

• It was agreed that the following technical inputs for the Perseus solution had been identified by the group:

1. Consumption and tariff data
   1. Consumption Data
      1. It was discussed that converting meter reading consumption into kWh is complex. Additionally, there is a need to build in a statement of baseline for meter readings.
   2. Tariff Data
      1. It was discussed that there should be flexibility to build in off-peak/weekend variables.
      2. It was discussed that having fuel-mix at tariff level (via optional field) is a helpful addition. 
      3. It was noted that the export approach (production and tariffs) needs validation (to be taken into AG1).
2. Consumption and tariff metadata
3. Assurance
   1. It was noted that “connectedness” (or interoperability) is a dimension which should be expanded upon.
4. Secure data exchange
5. Permission mechanism
   1. It was agreed and noted that the term “permission” rather than “consent” would be used, based on a narrow definition of the latter. 

• Barriers To Technical Implementation
  • Legal (permission); it was agreed that AG2 would keep up to date with new/emergent regulatory frameworks (cognizance of implication on value chain members).
  • It was discussed that understanding regulatory frameworks and security models would enable member organisations to contribute meaningfully
  • It was discussed that, for the micro SMEs, simplicity within this process is key.

Attendees

Co-chairs

Frank Wales, CTO, Icebreaker One

Ross Doherty, Role, Normative

Members

Jaya Chakrabarti, CEO, Semantrica Ltd trading as projectvana.org

Ciaran Wood, VP, Sage

Rick Curtis, DCC

Oliver Bates, West London Business

Vikesh Sachdeva, Chief Strategy Officer & Co-Founder, Perse Energy

Apologies

Andrew Griffiths, Director of Policy & Partnerships, Planet Mark

Matt Overall, CTO, Net Zero Now

Hannah Drake, Founder & CEO, Enerlytic

Meeting summary

It was noted that:

• Getting the language right around the assurance process and requirements is key:
  • Assurance is critical to the solution for building trust
  • A form of assurance is being, or will likely be, mandated across the market
  • Assurance definitions of ‘limited’ and ‘reasonable’ are materially different
  • Basic requirements: level of documentation of technical backbone; ensuring accuracy in data; completeness checks

It was discussed that:

• Reflecting on assurance principles, there should be controls, checks and balances built in to the solution (e.g. within automated data flow for standardisation)
• In terms of the business case and involved parties (SMEs, software applications, banks, WBA etc.), the value of Perseus is in:
  • Helping unlock financial investment
  • Saving resources (time, efficiency)
  • Improving quality and credibility
  • Reducing friction for SMEs
  • Improving Scope 3, Cat 15 reporting on financed emissions

Attendees:

Co-Chairs:

Gavin Starks, Founder and CEO, Icebreaker One

Duncan Oswald, Climate Science Lead, Sage

Members:

Aneysha Minocha, Founder and CEO, Quantenergy

Cerys Leff, Climate Data Analyst, Natwest

Hannah Cool, ESG Director, PwC

Ian Sutherland, CFO and Head of Net Zero, Tide

Jane Mossman, Head of Business Decarbonisation, West London

Josh Couchman, Head of Data Strategy, Connect Earth

Leon Jayasinghe, Partnerships Manager, Tide

Martina Colman, Head of Climate Science & Engineering, Climate Essentials

Molly Webb, Founder and CEO, Energy Unlocked

Nika Safonova, Business Carbon Management, Cogo

Rick Curtis, Smart DCC

Tracie Callaghan, Innovation Lead, Natwest

Apologies:

Andrew Griffiths, Director of Policy & Partnerships, Planet Mark

Conrad Ford, Chief Product & Strategy Officer

David Beer, Head of Enterprise Solutions and Partnerships, Cogo

Lee Freeman, Managing Partner, LSF Consultants Limited t/a Auditel

Lynne Baber, UK PwC Sustainability Practice Leader, PwC

Madhuban Kumar, CEO, Carbon Laces

In October, we convened the second Perseus Technical Infrastructure meeting, co-chaired by Normative and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the AG2 Scoping Document and where we are on the roadmap so far. We also discussed energy data format, tariff data format, consent storage and FAPI secure data exchange overview.  The goal of this meeting was to lay the groundwork to be able to finalise and agree technical specifications in the next (November) meeting.

Key meeting insights 

• It was discussed and noted that there may be different consent levels for accessing half-hourly/monthly data and this could lead to a lag/discrepancy
• It was noted that where datasets have gaps in data they will be less assurable than those that are more complete
• It was noted that there would need to be a chain of data provenance in the future
• The need for ‘virtual metering’ for SMEs whose data doesn’t come directly from a meter was discussed
• It was noted that there should be further discussion around export meters
• It was noted that there is an open question to bring to AG1 around overall tariff architecture
• It was noted that FAPI 2 will be the proposed API security standard and that more information would be shared with the group at a future meeting

Perseus AG1 User Needs & Impact Advisory Group

Perseus AG2 Technical Infrastructure Advisory Group

Perseus AG3 Data Licensing & Legal Advisory Group

Perseus AG4 Communications & Engagement Advisory Group

Perseus AG5 Policy Advisory Group

In October, we convened the second Perseus Policy Advisory Group meeting, co-chaired by Planet Mark and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the priorities for the advisory group and then building a roadmap for the highest five priorities. The group discussed in depth who the key stakeholders are, where there are gaps in information and how these priorities link to the other Perseus Advisory Groups.

Key Priorities identified 

1. Identifying and addressing any regulatory issues that will affect scaling the demonstrator for energy data sharing (Financial / Energy / Data Protection)
2. Mapping and addressing Data Protection issues relating to Perseus, ensuring SMEs have control of their confidential data.
3. Exploring policy implications of data types / sustainability metrics being handled by Perseus (e.g. how does it advance a consistency in SME reporting standards?).

Topics for Consideration

• Guidelines for competition and innovation to ensure engagement from a diverse range of third party sustainability analysis firms.
• What happens to derivative data? Exploring how to encourage ‘Data Reciprocity’ to share insights derived from data acquired through Perseus back into the system. 
• Identifying and addressing barriers to data access / measurement for SMEs (e.g. landlords unable / unwilling to share energy data).

In October, we convened the second Perseus Communications and Engagement meeting, co-chaired by Tide and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we heard a summary of the activity in the other Perseus advisory groups. We also discussed the Perseus related comms activities of advisory group members’ organisations; and the challenges that the group were facing.

Key meeting insights

• We heard an update on the other AGs and discussed the following comms opportunities:
  • AG1: Bringing value of Perseus to life by telling practical stories of real user needs
  • AG2: Straightforward message that automated reporting is firstly possible and secondly accurate – will lead to uplift in data quality (PCAF)
  • AG3: Focus on reputational protection, reinforcing sound legal basis, built to high standards of privacy and data rights
  • AG5: Reinforcing trust. Infrastructure will be trustworthy, stable, and affordable because of the quality of policy work behind it.
• It was agreed that storytelling with tangible outcomes and benefits for SMEs as well as banks and other stakeholders is key to gaining wider support for Perseus

In October, we convened the second Perseus Data licensing & legal meeting, co-chaired by Pinset Masons and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, the AG3 scoping document was reviewed and endorsed. We discussed what the key principles and parameters are that we would like the Perseus system to adhere with, and what our definition of ‘good’ is.  We also discussed what the key barriers to Perseus implementation are.

Key meeting insights 

• The language in point 1a of the scoping document was discussed – it was noted that SMEs are not protected under GDPR, only sole traders. It was agreed that the language should be changed to reflect that.
• It was also agreed that SMEs still require a level of protection. The purpose under which SMEs are consenting to the use of their data should be clear and the scope should ensure SMEs’ data is not used beyond this purpose.
• It was noted there is a difficulty in easily identifying sole traders at the moment and a solution is importing with regard to use of data and permissions.
• It was agreed that a glossary of terms is needed across the project; to include definitions of raw, enriched and derived data.
• The group agreed they need the chance to discuss an actual use case in order to best explore the licensing and legal needs and barriers.

Meeting summary

• It was discussed and agreed that Perseus will focus on doing one thing well initially, namely electricity
• It was noted that in green lending there is continuous monitoring, which allows SMEs to be more involved in the process, which can start to habitualise green action
• It was noted that tariff data is on the roadmap but that there is no solution yet
• It was agreed that Perseus has an opportunity to open up innovation and new services and to simplify the process of decarbonisation for SMEs
• It was noted that financed emissions are significant for banks in their business cases

We discussed recent news in the energy sector including an update on the Energy Bill; Claire Coutinho’s replacement of Grant Schapps as Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero; 40C heat waves and forest fires around Europe; and the recent press around onshore wind.

The Steering Group heard about Icebreaker One’s launch of their assurance and verification processes. The group discussed the importance of measures to build trust between organisations exchanging data, the role a trust framework can play and the level of protection against litigation. The group also heard an update on the Digital Spine and Virtual Energy System.

Key insights:

• In September, IB1 is launching assurance and verification processes for organisations and data to enable registration of datasets as compliant with standards.
• There are the Energy Bill and Data Bill moving through Parliament; Ofgem is pushing forward to broaden the reach of its Data Best Practice Principles; the Smart Data Council has a remit to apply ‘the principles of open banking’ across the economy. IB1 is across most of these conversations.
• The combined work of the Virtual Energy System, Digital Spine, and Open Energy, are all pointing in the same direction: a trust framework for secure data sharing.

How you can support:

Perseus  — If you are involved in energy and net zero, please join this ambitious national initiative to automate carbon reporting for all SMEs  — To go far, we go together

In September, we convened the second Perseus Communications and Engagement meeting, co-chaired by Tide and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed how each organisation can communicate about Perseus between now and the end of November, and developed a collaborative communications plan about how to communicate Perseus at COP28. Attendees discussed key priorities and chances for communications impact.

It was agreed that:

• There are three core comms goals:
  • Build a trusted reputation with the project’s key stakeholders and audiences
  • Establish awareness of the value of Perseus
  • Create opportunities for stakeholders to engage with each other and with the constellation – building strong and productive relationships
• Communications should emphasise that Perseus is a groundbreaking, co-ordinated, pre-competitive process –  it is important is the wide stakeholder reach and getting wide expertise to solve a really difficult problem.

It was noted that:

• It is great to focus on external stakeholders, but we also will need to get internal people on board
• There needs to be simple messaging around Perseus, and what if offers
• We should consider the question regarding the longer term vision for the brand. 

It was discussed that:

• Advisory Group members have comms superpowers – engaging with their key demographics, and customers with reach into SMEs, enterprise companies, and government

Perseus Steering Group

Perseus AG1 User Needs & Impact Advisory Group

Perseus AG2 Technical Infrastructure Advisory Group

Perseus AG3 Data Licensing & Legal Advisory Group

Perseus AG4 Communications & Engagement Advisory Group

Perseus AG5 Policy Advisory Group

In September, we convened the first Perseus Policy Advisory Group (AG5) meeting, co-chaired by Planet Mark and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the mission, vision, and values of Perseus and the Advisory Group process. Attendees discussed AG5 success metrics, scope, objectives, recommendations, and outcomes

Reference: AG5 scoping document

Key insights 

• By the end of 2023, AG5 must establish a clear scope of work for this group to establish what roles we need
• We aim to do one thing well because we want to constrain the utilisation to just one use case to begin with, to ensure achievability. The scope will increase over time based on the repeatable patterns that are identified.
• We are at the sharp end of implementation: we need to have a cohesive approach to implementation to end up with comparable data with the right level of scope and granularity, transparency, customers are protected
• Data assurability is vital, it is part of our scope to determine what policy frameworks need to be in place to enable or protect those in the process.
• The coverage cliff edge is a challenge: the reporting burden of larger organisations will be passed onto the SMEs.

In September, we convened the first Perseus Data licensing & legal (AG3) meeting, co-chaired by Pinset Masons and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the mission, vision, and values of Perseus and the Advisory Group process. Attendees discussed AG1 success metrics, scope, objectives, recommendations, and outcomes and key points raised in the scoping document including Consumer protection, Security protocols, Competition and innovation, Transparency and disclosure, Regulation and oversight, Financial stability and risk management, Customer awareness and education, Data scope and granularity, Liability framework, and Market monitoring.

Reference: AG3 Scoping Document

Key meeting insights 

• Access to energy data, particularly smart data is very complicated. The more specific we can be about the data flow – who, what, why, will make it easier to achieve something quickly.
• We need this Advisory Group to be very precise about what we want to achieve without cutting avenues off for things we want to do in the future.
• How can we create common consent model that everyone can align with, including highlighting potential risks 
• There are many different licensing and legal questions around what data is required. The difference between raw data and derived data – when do we move from raw to derived data? Where does that happen? How do we ensure permissions on that data and what the banks need?

In September, we convened the first Perseus Advisory Group — Technical Infrastructure (AG2) meeting, co-chaired by Normative and Icebreaker One. During this meeting, we discussed the mission, vision, and values of Perseus and the Advisory Group process, and heard from Advisory Group 1 (User Needs & Impact) the data sharing requirements they have discussed. Attendees discussed AG2 success metrics, scope, objectives, recommendations, and outcomes.

Reference: AG2 Scoping Document.

Key meeting insights 

• Through the Advisory Group process, we have a system where questions brought up which relate to scope, legal, communications, and policy requirements can be brought to other groups to discuss and advise. 
• In this stage of Perseus, we are focussed on doing one thing well – enabling reporting through accessing half hourly smart meter data which includes the carbon intensity at time of use and location of use. This will expand to other use cases but keeping a narrow scope now ensures focus. 
• The consent management process is critical, and needs unpacking technically and legally.
• A Trust Framework agrees the rules of the road for data exchange, including technical, legal, liability. We as AG2 need to come up with the definitions and attributes which answer the needs AG1 comes up with.