The digital spine can serve as the energy system's connective tissue, enabling secure data sharing and enhancing visibility across all energy stakeholders. Significant risks accompany this shift, including data quality and security, organisational readiness, and the complexity and scalability of the digital infrastructure. This report will discuss these risks and suggest using independent assurance frameworks to promote trust and acceptance of the digital spine.

This paper reviews the availability and utility of open data for modelling the impacts of electric vehicles (EVs) on the UK distribution network, identifying key challenges such as inconsistent data availability and formatting, and geographic discrepancies between datasets. By analysing EV charger connection data from two UK distribution network operators and comparing it to public charger locations, the study highlights the potential for a digital spine to enhance data standardisation and improve EV-grid integration models.