DCUSA
Distribution Connection and Use of System Agreement
Industry BodiesThe master contract that governs how electricity distribution networks operate in Great Britain, setting the rules for connections, charging, and the relationships between network operators and suppliers.
DCUSA is the multi-party legal agreement that underpins the entire electricity distribution market in Great Britain. It's signed by all DNOs, IDNOs, and licensed electricity suppliers, establishing the framework for how distribution networks are accessed and paid for.
What DCUSA covers:
- How new connections are made
- Methodology for calculating charges (CDCM)
- Data exchange requirements between parties
- Rights and obligations of all signatories
- Dispute resolution processes
Change process: When industry changes are needed, they go through a formal DCUSA Change Proposal (DCP) process, with working groups, consultations, and ultimately Ofgem approval.
Why it matters for bill validation: DCUSA-mandated transparency means you have the right to verify your DUoS charges against published tariffs. Every DNO must publish their complete Charging Statement including all tariff rates, LLFC mappings, and time band definitions. If your supplier cannot explain a charge by reference to published DCUSA-compliant methodology, that's a red flag.
Related terms
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