Utility Survey Exchange (USX) is a unique data project, harnessing the power of collective, shared knowledge with the pace and potency of digital technology. It is being led by UK Power Networks, working with Utility Survey Exchange (which was originally set up with the support of Ordnance Survey’s Geovation programme). The project aims to create a digital platform for sharing high-quality survey data from leading practitioners and experts.
The data sharing project is led by UK Power Networks, working with Utility Survey Exchange to create a digital platform for sharing high-quality survey data from leading practitioners and experts. The project leads the way in improving data quality by giving asset owners access to the latest and best data available about their buried network.
How we’re doing it
Participants in the trial will report extensive data about buried assets to an independent online data analytics platform, which will relay the information directly to UK Power Networks, who also supply maps on request to firms like housing developers who carry out excavation work. The improved data will help reduce the risk of workers accidentally digging through buried electrical cables which can cause serious injury and interrupt local power supplies.
What makes it innovative
USX harnesses the power of collective, shared knowledge with the pace and potency of digital technology. The team of specialists in the trial are from across the industry and are collaborating closely to make our network more efficient and effective.
USX will also deliver in support of the Energy Data Taskforce recommendations, which were released in June 2019. The Taskforce, commissioned by the Government, Ofgem, and Innovate UK, set out five key recommendations that will modernise the UK energy system and drive it towards a net zero carbon future through an integrated data and digital strategy throughout the sector.
What we’re learning
Reliable, accurate underground utility survey and asset data is a very valuable resource. Building a more accurate picture of buried assets means we can lower costs and carbon emissions and improve safety on site. Ultimately, it could be the difference between life and death for engineers working with buried electrical cables on site.
There is also the possibility for other asset owners to join the platform in order to gain insight into their networks. This would allow full value to be gained from the high-quality survey data gathered in the field.
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