What is a DNO? Distribution Network Operator

Distribution Network Operators, or Electricity Network Operators manage the electric power distribution system which delivers electricity to end users. But, what is a Distribution Network Operator (DNO), and what does DNO stand for?

DNO stands for Distribution Network Operator.  DNO's are licensed companies that own and operate the network of cables, transformers and towers that bring electricity from the national transmission network to businesses and homes. In simple terms, they are companies that distribute electricity in the UK. Electricity network operators help connect your home to electricity and can move your electricity meter. They also fix power cuts that aren’t caused by a problem inside your home.  They are different form your energy supplier.

The 6 licensed DNOs in the UK are:

  • SP Electricity North West - North West England
  • Northern Powergrid - North East England
  • SP Energy Networks (formerly Scottish Power Energy Networks) - Liverpool, Glasgow & Edinburgh, plus North Wales, Scottish Borders and Dumfries & Galloway
  • Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) - North of Scotland and Central Southern England
  • UK Power Networks (UKPN) - London, the South East and East of England
  • National Grid (formerly Western Power Distribution) - Midlands, South West and South Wales

To find out who your DNO is you can view a map here

Some homes and businesses are connected to independent distribution networks. An Independent Distribution Network Operator (IDNO) takes care of a smaller part of the electricity network. 

These include:

  • Advanced Electricity Networks
  • Aurora Utilities
  • Eclipse Power Networks
  • Energy Assets Networks
  • ESP Utilities Group
  • Fulcrum
  • Green Gen Cymru
  • FTC
  • Harlaxton Energy Networks
  • Independent Distribution Connection Specialist
  • Indigo Power
  • Last Mile Asset Management
  • Leep Utilities
  • mua Group
  • Optimal Power Networks
  • Stark Infra-Electricity
  • UK Power Distribution
  • Utility Assets
  • Vatenfall

The majority of DNOs will supply the meter box/GRP enclosure for your electricity connection, however some (like UKPN) give you the option to purchase your own, allowing you freedom to purchase the size you want (subject to their minimum requirements).