Call for input: AI technical sandbox

Call for input
  • Open
  • Closed
Publication date
Closing date
Industry sector
Carbon capture and storage
Distribution Network
Generation and Wholesale Market
Long duration electricity storage
Offshore Transmission Network
Supply and Retail Market
Transmission Network

We are seeking views on a proposal to create an Ofgem AI technical sandbox, a safe and controlled digital environment to test artificial intelligence (AI) uses in the energy sector. 

This technical sandbox would support innovation while helping us understand, manage and mitigate the risks of AI. It would also help ensure AI is used in a way that protects consumers and supports the transition to net zero. 

Who should respond

We would like to hear from: 

  • energy sector companies using or exploring AI 
  • technology developers and AI providers 
  • data providers and digital infrastructure specialists 
  • consumer groups and charities 
  • think tanks and academic institutions 
  • anyone working on AI policy or regulation 

Background

AI is already being used in the energy sector across Great Britain. It helps with things like: 

  • predicting energy demand 
  • maintaining and managing the grid 
  • supporting customer interactions 

But AI also brings challenges, such as: 

  • algorithmic bias 
  • security and privacy risks 
  • lack of transparency 

We are considering an AI technical sandbox to help energy sector companies test AI tools safely and responsibly. It would also help Ofgem understand how to regulate AI in a way that supports innovation and protects consumers. 

This work supports the UK Government’s ambitions set out in the AI Opportunities Action Plan, which aims to: 

  • boost AI adoption across the economy 
  • improve public services 
  • ensure the UK remains a global leader in responsible and innovative AI development 

Why your views matter

We want to make sure AI is used in a way that is safe, secure, fair, environmentally sustainable and supports innovation in the energy sector. 

Your feedback will help us decide whether to move forward with the sandbox and how we should design it. It will also help us continue shaping our wider approach to AI regulation. 

How to respond

Please send your response by Thursday 18 September 2025

Email: AIPolicy@ofgem.gov.uk 
Subject line: AI technical sandbox call for input

You can respond to all or just some of the questions. 
We also welcome case studies or examples. 
If you are interested in taking part in a future sandbox pilot, please let us know. 

Next steps

As part of our continued sector engagement, we will be hosting two virtual information sessions in August 2025. These engagement sessions will cover the AI technical sandbox and our Ofgem AI regulatory lab (AI Reg Lab) call for submissions. The AI Reg Lab is an exercise where energy sector participants can explore and test AI uses in a safe environment, with an independent expert panel. They will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to: 

  • learn more about both initiatives 
  • ask questions 
  • share your views 

The sessions will take place on: 

 
Thank you for your continued engagement and commitment to responsible innovation in the energy sector. We look forward to hearing your views.