Short Term Active Response (STAR)

Short Term Active Response (STAR)

SHORT TERM ACTIVE RESPONSE (STAR) is a scheme operated by the TSO whereby electricity consumers are contracted to make their load available for short term interruptions. This service provides the TSO with 'reserves' that are utilised in the event of the loss (tripping) of a large generating unit. The STAR scheme, which was previously known as the 'Interruptible Load' scheme, has been operating for over 20 years.

Electricity consumers providing this service can expect 10 to 20 unplanned and instantaneous interruptions per annum of some, or all, of their load. Interruptions are initiated by an under-frequency relay installed at the consumer's premises and each interruption would typically be of the order of 5 minutes duration. No notice is given of Interruptions. The cost of installing metering, communications and control equipment is paid for by customers participating in the scheme. 

In return for providing this service, the TSO makes payments to customers based on the energy that they make available for interruption. This service was last procured competitively in 2010. The payment rates for providing this service are outlined in the AS Statement of Payments & Charges (Feb-Sep 2010).

It is possible to obtain further information by emailing star@eirgrid.com.