Sector coupling makes a difference to how energy is generated and used, whether it is applied on a relatively small scale in a setting such as a residential apartment block, or on an industrial scale by a major multinational company. What really matters is how sector coupling makes the most of low-carbon energy. 

But what is sector coupling? In a nutshell, it involves integrating the main energy consuming sectors - transport, buildings and industry - with the sectors that generate power, while at the same time exploiting every opportunity to make the most of zero-carbon energy generated from renewable sources. Solar photovoltaics (PV) and wind turbines are good examples of the type of energy generation that sector coupling seeks to promote.

• DNOs will evolve into Distribution System Operators (DSOs) that procure and orchestrate flexibility. Energy retailers will provide new services such as assisting customers with power purchase agreements, flexible tariff management, implementing technologies such as bi-directional EV charging infrastructure and providing 'energy-as-a-service' offerings.

• Energy retailers will be in a position to create value by making their customers’ flexibility assets avalable to help balance the grid. These assets may include solar PV generation and thier EV fleets, for example. They will be able to support DSOs by providing data and information on demand-side dynamics and local asset condition.