Definition
DSO (Distribution System Operator) is the European and international term for an operator of the distribution network - the Norwegian 'nettselskap' (grid companyCompany that owns and operates electricity grids and is responsible for power supply to end users.) is Norway's variant of a DSO. The DSO owns and operates low-voltage and high-voltage distribution networks (typically below 132 kV) and is responsible for grid connectionThe process of connecting a new facility to the electricity grid and registering it as a metering point in Elhub., meter reading, fault management, and grid planning within its licensed area. The DSO is a regulated monopoly: customers in an area have no choice of DSO. In EU regulations (Electricity Market Directive, Network Codes), the term DSO is used consistently, and Norwegian grid companies act as DSOs in European contexts - for example in ACEREU's energy regulator - coordinates national regulators and sets common rules for the power market. reporting and cooperation with system operators in other countries. An important distinction: DSO (distribution network, local) vs. TSOTransmission System Operator - responsible for operation and balance of the transmission grid at national level. - Transmission System Operator - which is StatnettNorway's system operator for the transmission grid - owns and operates the high-voltage network and operates Elhub.'s role (transmission network, nationwide). For IT suppliers, understanding the DSO role is important: it is the DSO that owns the metering points, communicates with ElhubNational hub for metering data and market processes in the Norwegian electricity market., and represents TvimenningOld Norse meaning 'two bound together' - one who solves a task shoulder to shoulder with another.'s typical end-customer profile.