FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
Q: What purpose does the National Grid ESO Data Portal serve and what are the benefits?
A: The ESO Data Portal will act as a centralised repository for all ESO data that can be shared openly, the benefits include offering powerful ways to easily search our data, consume data via the API and providing detailed descriptions to get a clear understanding of the datasets.
Q: How does the Data Portal fit in with the other avenues of National Grid ESO data provisions such as the ESO website?
A: Our aim is for the ESO Data Portal to provide a single repository for ESO data, we are currently working to migrate our data from our other sites to the portal. As we do this, we will clearly signpost any changes that we make to the new locations.
Q: Will the data from BM reports be published on the National Grid ESO Data Portal?
A: We are not intending to replicate any of our data which is currently published on BMRS.
Q: Will National Grid ESO be publishing new datasets?
A: We have already added several new datasets and will continue to work with our internal and external stakeholders to identify potential new datasets for publication on the portal. If you have ideas for what data you would like to see us publish, please let us know by contacting box.OpenData.ESO@nationalgrideso.com
Q: There are disclaimers on some datasets, when will these be removed?
A: The disclaimers are being removed as we migrate the data feeds directly to the portal. We expect all data to have been migrated by the end of the 20/21 financial year.
Q: How do I get started with the Application Programming Interface (API)?
A: There is extensive documentation associated with CKAN’s API which can be found by following these steps:
- Click on the “Explore” button for the data file you are interested in.
- Click on the “API” button
- Finally click on the “CKAN Data API and DataStore documentation” text to access the document.
You can also get in contact with us at box.OpenData.ESO@nationalgrideso.com and we will be able to help resolve your query.
Q: How do I get started with the Query Builder?
A: The Query Builder feature allows you to build your own queries using the filter option. The queries are provided in some of the most popular programming languages utilised today i.e. cUrl, Python, JavaScript, R script or Pandas which you can integrate into your own tools.
To build your query, click the “Add a filter” button and choose the filtered fields and values you wish to filter.
For example:
You can then click on the “Query Builder” button, and you will be able to view and “Copy” the code, and integrate it in your own tool:
Q: How do I give feedback / recommendations about the Data Portal?
A: If you’d like to let us know what datasets, features or other improvements you’d like to see on the portal, you can email us directly at box.OpenData.ESO@nationalgrideso.com
Q: How much historic data will the ESO maintain on the portal?
A: This will depend on the nature of the dataset. If you have thoughts on any particular datasets get in contact with us at box.OpenData.ESO@nationalgrideso.com
Q: How does this fit with the EDTF (Energy Data Taskforce) recommendations?
A: We support the work of the EDTF (Energy Data Taskforce) and see this data portal as a key enabler to meeting the evolving recommendations.
Q: Can I subscribe to update notifications on datasets?
A: Yes, in the next release by there will be an option for you to register and subscribe to updates on selected datasets.