Electricity Network Infrastructure Policy

29 Oct 2025 | Committee report linked

Ofgem should reassess the outcomes of its Targeted Charging Review and consult on how increased network costs resulting from a sharp increase in investment in electricity infrastructure could be allocated more broadly, including across wider parts of the energy system. It should complete this process by summer 2026. (Recommendation, Paragraph 71) Billing issues and redress

Ofgem should reassess the outcomes of its Targeted Charging Review and consult on how increased network costs resulting from a sharp increase in investment in electricity infrastructure could be allocated more broadly, including across wider parts of the energy system. …

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7 Jul 2025 | Committee report linked

We have not had the opportunity to consider the issue in detail. However, we believe that there is merit to these arguments, given that electricity distribution infrastructure is strategically important and can be much smaller in scale than transmission infrastructure. (Conclusion, Paragraph 48)

We have not had the opportunity to consider the issue in detail. However, we believe that there is merit to these arguments, given that electricity distribution infrastructure is strategically important and can be much smaller in scale than transmission infrastructure. …

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7 Jul 2025 | Committee report linked

The complex judgments involved in evaluating different options for electricity network infrastructure not only raise a strong argument for settling these strategic considerations at an earlier stage, but also heighten the need for affected communities to be involved in those decisions. (Conclusion, Paragraph 53)

The complex judgments involved in evaluating different options for electricity network infrastructure not only raise a strong argument for settling these strategic considerations at an earlier stage, but also heighten the need for affected communities to be involved in those …

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7 Jul 2025 | Committee report linked

National planning policy for CNP infrastructure should strongly encourage innovative strategies to reduce environmental impacts and, where appropriate, adjustments to site boundaries, layouts or the volume of electricity generation in specific areas for this purpose. (Conclusion, Paragraph 69)

National planning policy for CNP infrastructure should strongly encourage innovative strategies to reduce environmental impacts and, where appropriate, adjustments to site boundaries, layouts or the volume of electricity generation in specific areas for this purpose. (Conclusion, Paragraph 69) Type

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12 Mar 2025 | Committee report linked

As with motorway service areas, many of these locations are limited by the strength of the local electricity network and the ability to enhance and connect to it. The Government recognises that the processes to receive electricity grid connections are increasingly unfit for purpose and take too long, and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and Ofgem have put in place a Connections Action Plan to seek to remedy this. However, the connections queue is still growing, with competing d...

As with motorway service areas, many of these locations are limited by the strength of the local electricity network and the ability to enhance and connect to it. The Government recognises that the processes to receive electricity grid connections are …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

The Government has set stretching overall ambitions for the generating capacity required to supply the GB electricity grid with decarbonised energy by 2035. To meet these, current capacity will have to increase by 250% in a little over a decade. Planning for this wholesale electrification of the economy ought to be well under way to ensure that the 2035 deadline is met.

The Government has set stretching overall ambitions for the generating capacity required to supply the GB electricity grid with decarbonised energy by 2035. To meet these, current capacity will have to increase by 250% in a little over a decade. …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government, together with Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator, establish a multidisciplinary planning cell tasked with the development of a detailed pathway to the decarbonised grid. This unit ought to be commissioned to produce a delivery plan that sets out the necessary investment and rollout of electricity infrastructure required to deliver the Government’s current ambitions for low carbon electricity generation. The cell should be established as soon as pos...

We recommend that the Government, together with Ofgem and the National Energy System Operator, establish a multidisciplinary planning cell tasked with the development of a detailed pathway to the decarbonised grid. This unit ought to be commissioned to produce a …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

The form that this energy storage should take has not been made clear by the Government. It is by no means clear to us that Ministers have grasped the scale of the storage facilities likely to be required, nor the Government action likely to be necessary either in providing long-term storage or establishing the conditions for it to be developed. The sector therefore lacks strategic direction, inhibiting private investment and delaying the future rollout of grid-scale energy storage. (Paragrap...

The form that this energy storage should take has not been made clear by the Government. It is by no means clear to us that Ministers have grasped the scale of the storage facilities likely to be required, nor the …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Ofgem and the Energy System Operator have sought to improve grid connection timeframes through reforming grid queue procedures and introducing milestones. Early evidence suggests that the reforms introduced to date appear not to have yet had the immediate and radical effect on reducing grid connection times which they were designed to deliver: two months after the introduction of milestones, the queue had markedly lengthened, a development likely to have been due to a significant increase in ...

Ofgem and the Energy System Operator have sought to improve grid connection timeframes through reforming grid queue procedures and introducing milestones. Early evidence suggests that the reforms introduced to date appear not to have yet had the immediate and radical …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Overall visibility of the grid connections queue is limited, and it is possible that the immediate effect of the reforms introduced has been to lengthen the connections queue as developers react to the new regime. While we welcome the Ofgem project milestone reforms which took effect in November 2023, the measures entailed in the Connections Action Plan may take longer to have a positive effect on the queue.

Overall visibility of the grid connections queue is limited, and it is possible that the immediate effect of the reforms introduced has been to lengthen the connections queue as developers react to the new regime. While we welcome the Ofgem …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that, in the interests of transparency, Ofgem monitor and publicly report on the status of the queue and its progress in managing it on a monthly basis.

We recommend that, in the interests of transparency, Ofgem monitor and publicly report on the status of the queue and its progress in managing it on a monthly basis. Type: recommendation | Number: 19 | Paragraph: 92 | Response status: …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

The Government and Ofgem must implement in full the changes proposed in the Connections Action Plan. This must entail, for example, the prioritisation of short- term grid requirements, so as to incentivise network operators to prioritise renewable energy connections. The connection of grid inputs from solar and wind, generation, and outputs serving decarbonised applications such as heat pumps and electric vehicle charging, must be prioritised in parallel with connections for larger nuclear an...

The Government and Ofgem must implement in full the changes proposed in the Connections Action Plan. This must entail, for example, the prioritisation of short- term grid requirements, so as to incentivise network operators to prioritise renewable energy connections. The …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recognise the rationale for the current restrictions on the commissioning and construction of connections to regional substations. The GB electricity network must be constructed to certain minimum standards which ensure coherence, reliability and interoperability, under arrangements which provide long-term certainty over responsibility for maintenance. Nevertheless, we consider that there is in principle scope to accelerate grid expansion by authorising experienced third parties to build c...

We recognise the rationale for the current restrictions on the commissioning and construction of connections to regional substations. The GB electricity network must be constructed to certain minimum standards which ensure coherence, reliability and interoperability, under arrangements which provide

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government examine the operation of the current ED2 (distribution) and T2 (transmission) price control periods to establish whether the measures are driving the necessary connections and increases in capacity. If not, these price control periods should be re-opened or modified so as to incentivise immediate network reform. Future network regulatory reviews should be geared to respond as rapidly as possible to the potential for further innovations to decarbonise the economy.

We recommend that the Government examine the operation of the current ED2 (distribution) and T2 (transmission) price control periods to establish whether the measures are driving the necessary connections and increases in capacity. If not, these price control periods should …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

A general focus by Ofgem on ‘just in time’ network investment means that limited current network capacity can be a barrier to new connections. We recommend that the Government and Ofgem work together to encourage anticipatory investment where it is apparent that new demands on the system are likely. This should be done through clear direction based on the Centralised Strategic Network Plan, as well as through targeted market incentives and reform of the network price control review process.

A general focus by Ofgem on ‘just in time’ network investment means that limited current network capacity can be a barrier to new connections. We recommend that the Government and Ofgem work together to encourage anticipatory investment where it is …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Energy infrastructure supply chains are often very fragile and are affected by fierce global competition. The shoring up of these supply chains serving the UK’s electrification requirements will require urgent and significant anticipatory investment to ensure that the rollout of infrastructure can take place at reasonable value for money.

Energy infrastructure supply chains are often very fragile and are affected by fierce global competition. The shoring up of these supply chains serving the UK’s electrification requirements will require urgent and significant anticipatory investment to ensure that the rollout of …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government develop a plan to ensure that planning authorities, are sufficiently well resourced, in terms of personnel and expertise, to support the timely determination of planning applications for energy infrastructure and facilities. 48 Enabling sustainable electrification of the economy Ministers should expedite the delivery of a training programme designed to provide the necessary skills which will support well-considered and timely consideration of planning applicat...

We recommend that the Government develop a plan to ensure that planning authorities, are sufficiently well resourced, in terms of personnel and expertise, to support the timely determination of planning applications for energy infrastructure and facilities. 48 Enabling sustainable electrification …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Despite recent reforms to the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime in respect of energy infrastructure and to the National Planning Policy Framework, we are not convinced that the current design of the planning system is adequate to balance local concerns and interests against the need for rapid rollout of electricity infrastructure.

Despite recent reforms to the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime in respect of energy infrastructure and to the National Planning Policy Framework, we are not convinced that the current design of the planning system is adequate to balance local concerns …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

The Government should further review the application of planning regulations to electricity infrastructure so as to bring the relevant provisions of the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime and the National Planning Policy Framework into full alignment. We recommend that the review address the impact of the planning consenting system on the timely deployment of renewable energy generation and energy infrastructure, including the particular conditions which currently apply to ...

The Government should further review the application of planning regulations to electricity infrastructure so as to bring the relevant provisions of the Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects regime and the National Planning Policy Framework into full alignment. We recommend that the …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Early, well-run community engagement is an essential aspect of successful rollout of energy infrastructure. Communities who are engaged and invested, and who can have input into their local infrastructure, are more likely to accept a greater level of infrastructure and support the energy transition more broadly.

Early, well-run community engagement is an essential aspect of successful rollout of energy infrastructure. Communities who are engaged and invested, and who can have input into their local infrastructure, are more likely to accept a greater level of infrastructure and …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government develop a major public engagement strategy to communicate the need for further electrification of the economy, its likely benefits and the infrastructure development it will entail.

We recommend that the Government develop a major public engagement strategy to communicate the need for further electrification of the economy, its likely benefits and the infrastructure development it will entail. Type: recommendation | Number: 39 | Paragraph: 138 | …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

The Government must also require meaningful developer-led community engagement at the outset of major electricity infrastructure projects. We recommend that Ministers also develop guidance for operators and local authorities on best practice in community engagement.

The Government must also require meaningful developer-led community engagement at the outset of major electricity infrastructure projects. We recommend that Ministers also develop guidance for operators and local authorities on best practice in community engagement. Type: recommendation | Number: 4

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

Engaging early and fully with local communities to explain why renewable energy infrastructure through their area is necessary and of benefit to them is essential to ensure positive public participation and acceptance. Badly-designed community benefits, or those forced upon communities without adequate consultation, can create tension and objection to new infrastructure while adding costs to consumer bills nationwide. Approaches to engagement and consultation which are poorly thought out or i...

Engaging early and fully with local communities to explain why renewable energy infrastructure through their area is necessary and of benefit to them is essential to ensure positive public participation and acceptance. Badly-designed community benefits, or those forced upon communities …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government expedite the implementation of its current proposals for community benefits to be considered as part of community engagement in the delivery of certain transmission projects. A toolkit of illustrative community benefits and potential levels of support should be developed in order to inform communities what options are available to them as well as providing incentives to developers to mitigate visual or community impacts as far as possible. Progress in implemen...

We recommend that the Government expedite the implementation of its current proposals for community benefits to be considered as part of community engagement in the delivery of certain transmission projects. A toolkit of illustrative community benefits and potential levels of …

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24 May 2024 | Committee report linked

We recommend that Government and Ofgem should maintain clear indicators of progress on decarbonisation and energy security to allow simple public progress tracking of the proportion of renewable electricity on the system compared to expected needs, the security of supply and the progress on connections. (Paragraph 172) 50 Enabling sustainable electrification of the economy

We recommend that Government and Ofgem should maintain clear indicators of progress on decarbonisation and energy security to allow simple public progress tracking of the proportion of renewable electricity on the system compared to expected needs, the security of supply …

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21 Jun 2023 | Committee report linked

The Department has created offshore wind, hydrogen, electricity network, and nuclear champions whose role includes identifying potential risks, barriers and bottlenecks to progress and making recommendations for both the Department and other parts of government where issues cross departmental responsibilities. Planning permission and skills in the workforce are two relevant issues.43 The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities is responsible for planning arrangements.44 The Depar...

The Department has created offshore wind, hydrogen, electricity network, and nuclear champions whose role includes identifying potential risks, barriers and bottlenecks to progress and making recommendations for both the Department and other parts of government where issues cross departmental respon

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government establishes an appropriate policy framework to support investment decisions in long-duration energy storage this year, to enable projects to be completed by the end of the decade. This includes setting out a target range for long-duration energy technologies and putting in place a revenue stabilisation mechanism. We recommend that the Government ensures that there is a sufficient number of staff within the Department working on this crucial policy area. In res...

We recommend that the Government establishes an appropriate policy framework to support investment decisions in long-duration energy storage this year, to enable projects to be completed by the end of the decade. This includes setting out a target range for …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

The planning system, nationally and locally within England and also in Scotland and Wales, is a major constraint on the timely delivery of low-carbon energy infrastructure. There are many reasons for this, some of which we do not cover in this report, and we acknowledge the need for effective controls where justified. But we are in no doubt that steps will need to be taken to accelerate the planning process for low-carbon energy infrastructure.

The planning system, nationally and locally within England and also in Scotland and Wales, is a major constraint on the timely delivery of low-carbon energy infrastructure. There are many reasons for this, some of which we do not cover in …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

A lack of network capacity and delays to securing grid connections are together hampering the delivery of low-carbon power and driving potential investments overseas. For too long, transmission and distribution network owners have been able to delay or avoid the level of anticipatory investment required to deliver a network capable of meeting the needs of the country. Ofgem’s approach to agreeing future investment in previous investment rounds has not been proactive enough, Decarbonisation of...

A lack of network capacity and delays to securing grid connections are together hampering the delivery of low-carbon power and driving potential investments overseas. For too long, transmission and distribution network owners have been able to delay or avoid the …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We join many other organisations from across the sector in calling on Ministers, Ofgem and network owners to help recover lost ground by accelerating investment in future grid capacity now ahead of need. The increasing costs associated with turning off generation sites due to a lack of transmission capacity must be halted. Investment should be considered to increase capacity where it is currently inadequate and anticipatory investment should prevent this from happening in areas of future deve...

We join many other organisations from across the sector in calling on Ministers, Ofgem and network owners to help recover lost ground by accelerating investment in future grid capacity now ahead of need. The increasing costs associated with turning off …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We recommend that Ofgem sees the Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) framework as a starting point to accelerate the delivery of the necessary grid upgrades required to meet the Government’s 2035 target. This work should continue beyond 2035 to ensure adequate overall capacity for delivering on the 2050 net zero target. We support the recommendation of the Climate Change Committee for the Government to establish a Minister-led infrastructure delivery group, advised by the Ele...

We recommend that Ofgem sees the Accelerated Strategic Transmission Investment (ASTI) framework as a starting point to accelerate the delivery of the necessary grid upgrades required to meet the Government’s 2035 target. This work should continue beyond 2035 to ensure …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

The UK’s “first come first served” approach to grid connections is failing to deliver the volume of connections required. Projects which may be speculative or slow-moving risk being prioritised over those that are more viable. While we welcome National Grid ESO’s five-point plan to tackle queue management issues at the transmission level, we do not believe this has proved successful to date. We recommend that Ofgem allows National Grid ESO to require projects already in the queue to meet stre...

The UK’s “first come first served” approach to grid connections is failing to deliver the volume of connections required. Projects which may be speculative or slow-moving risk being prioritised over those that are more viable. While we welcome National Grid …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We recommend that when a need for investment in the distribution network becomes clear, Ofgem ensures the uncertainty mechanisms included in the RIIO-ED2 framework are applied efficiently. Should these prove inadequate to respond to a rapid roll-out of low-carbon technologies, Ofgem should take equivalent steps to its ASTI framework to ensure that distribution networks are an enabler not blocker to net zero.

We recommend that when a need for investment in the distribution network becomes clear, Ofgem ensures the uncertainty mechanisms included in the RIIO-ED2 framework are applied efficiently. Should these prove inadequate to respond to a rapid roll-out of low-carbon technologies, …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

We are concerned by the risks that customers face different outcomes in different regions due to a lack of national direction setting for distribution networks. We recommend that Ofgem revises its approach to the planning of distribution networks to one which is more outcome focused. Ofgem should set the minimum expectations that network users should expect, as well as best practice. Distribution Network Operators should then find innovative ways to meet these standards.

We are concerned by the risks that customers face different outcomes in different regions due to a lack of national direction setting for distribution networks. We recommend that Ofgem revises its approach to the planning of distribution networks to one …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

Regulatory settlements for network owners must deliver value for money for consumers. Despite improvements from Ofgem in tackling excessive profits made by these companies in previous price control frameworks, we are concerned that network owners continue to be overly rewarded. Asymmetries throughout the regulatory process between network companies and other stakeholders, including consumer representatives, increase this risk. Greater visibility of network performance is needed to drive up st...

Regulatory settlements for network owners must deliver value for money for consumers. Despite improvements from Ofgem in tackling excessive profits made by these companies in previous price control frameworks, we are concerned that network owners continue to be overly rewarded. …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

In future, data and visibility will be key to ascertaining whether network reinforcement or an alternative, such as procuring flexibility services, would be most cost effective for consumers. But there has been insufficient investment in monitoring capability at low voltages to date, resulting in poor visibility of connected assets and the state of the distribution networks. It is also unclear whether all distribution operators are maximising the opportunities of a smarter, more flexible grid...

In future, data and visibility will be key to ascertaining whether network reinforcement or an alternative, such as procuring flexibility services, would be most cost effective for consumers. But there has been insufficient investment in monitoring capability at low voltages …

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28 Apr 2023 | Committee report linked

To address the delivery risks to the 2035 target, the Government will need to ensure that planning and environmental authorities are properly resourced, that planning guidance is aligned with its decarbonisation goals and that the process is streamlined. Ofgem needs to approve investment in the electricity networks ahead of need and network owners need to deliver on their business plans. The process to securing a grid connection must be overhauled. Demand-side flexibility needs to be treated ...

To address the delivery risks to the 2035 target, the Government will need to ensure that planning and environmental authorities are properly resourced, that planning guidance is aligned with its decarbonisation goals and that the process is streamlined. Ofgem needs …

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8 Mar 2023 | Committee report linked

Long-term targets and a clear roadmap for delivery, as recommended elsewhere in this report, should be provided at the earliest opportunity to assist National Grid ESO in planning for improvements to grid infrastructure. Alongside this, the UK Government should continue to appraise National Grid ESO’s proposals, ensure these are fit for purpose and, where necessary, back proposals with anticipatory investment. We also recommend the UK Government continue to engage with industry and other stak...

Long-term targets and a clear roadmap for delivery, as recommended elsewhere in this report, should be provided at the earliest opportunity to assist National Grid ESO in planning for improvements to grid infrastructure. Alongside this, the UK Government should continue …

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2 Mar 2023 | Committee report linked

We recommended in our July 2021 report on zero emission vehicles that some of the £950 million rapid charging fund be used to provide fully future-proofed grid capacity, and that the Government work with National Grid to map the electricity network to assess potential weak areas. In October 2021 a proof-of-concept version of a National Energy Systems Map was published. We reiterate our previous recommendation that this kind of information be used to develop a plan to prevent ‘not-spots’ in gr...

We recommended in our July 2021 report on zero emission vehicles that some of the £950 million rapid charging fund be used to provide fully future-proofed grid capacity, and that the Government work with National Grid to map the electricity …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We have heard that there are constraints on both the distribution and transmission grids in Wales. Julie James MS told us Wales does not have the grid capacity it needs “right now”. However, Rt Hon Greg Hands MP told us that the grid is “fit for purpose today”. We are concerned by the difference in understanding between the UK and Welsh Governments over current grid capacity in Wales.

We have heard that there are constraints on both the distribution and transmission grids in Wales. Julie James MS told us Wales does not have the grid capacity it needs “right now”. However, Rt Hon Greg Hands MP told us …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the Government explain the timescales of “today” and “tomorrow” in the context of grid capacity in Wales. Further to this we recommend that the Government explains the evidence for its statement that the electricity grid in Wales is “fit for purpose today” in light of the evidence we have received on grid constraints in Wales. The UK Government must work with the Welsh Government to produce an agreed assessment of current electricity grid capacity in Wales and set out the ag...

We recommend that the Government explain the timescales of “today” and “tomorrow” in the context of grid capacity in Wales. Further to this we recommend that the Government explains the evidence for its statement that the electricity grid in Wales …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

To ensure that communities and business in Wales can decarbonise in line with government targets, grid infrastructure must be able to meet the projected increase in demand for electricity. The evidence we received suggested that the grid in Wales will not be suitable to facilitate the decarbonisation of heat and transport across Wales.

To ensure that communities and business in Wales can decarbonise in line with government targets, grid infrastructure must be able to meet the projected increase in demand for electricity. The evidence we received suggested that the grid in Wales will …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

While we understand that the UK Government must consider the energy and network needs of the UK as a whole, we consider that it would be inequitable if the UK were to benefit from Wales’ natural resources for renewable energy generation while Welsh households, businesses and industry were not adequately connected to the grid.

While we understand that the UK Government must consider the energy and network needs of the UK as a whole, we consider that it would be inequitable if the UK were to benefit from Wales’ natural resources for renewable energy …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We recommend that the UK Government task the new Electricity Networks Commissioner to determine the grid infrastructure necessary to enable industry, communities and businesses in Wales to decarbonise heat and transport in line with net zero targets.

We recommend that the UK Government task the new Electricity Networks Commissioner to determine the grid infrastructure necessary to enable industry, communities and businesses in Wales to decarbonise heat and transport in line with net zero targets. Type: recommendation | …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We recognise the strengths of an electricity grid that serves the whole of Great Britain. However, we conclude that there are distinct challenges and opportunities relating to grid infrastructure in Wales that require specific focus and intervention from the UK Government.

We recognise the strengths of an electricity grid that serves the whole of Great Britain. However, we conclude that there are distinct challenges and opportunities relating to grid infrastructure in Wales that require specific focus and intervention from the UK …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We note the work by the Welsh Government to develop a long-term plan for energy networks in Wales and call on the UK Government to explain how it is engaging with this. The UK Government needs to explain how it is taking into account Wales-specific 38 Grid capacity in Wales challenges and opportunities when considering grid design and how it is ensuring that Wales is able to benefit from the increased investment and development associated with grid reinforcement.

We note the work by the Welsh Government to develop a long-term plan for energy networks in Wales and call on the UK Government to explain how it is engaging with this. The UK Government needs to explain how it …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

Upfront connection costs can be prohibitive and prevent the development of energy projects. This results in a “chicken and egg” situation whereby developers wait for other developers to commit to the funding of connection costs.

Upfront connection costs can be prohibitive and prevent the development of energy projects. This results in a “chicken and egg” situation whereby developers wait for other developers to commit to the funding of connection costs. Type: conclusion | Number: 9 …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We are encouraged that Ofgem is reviewing connection arrangements and we look forward to hearing more about the progress being made in the run up to 1 April 2023. We consider that due to the tight timeframes set by government net zero targets, urgent work should be done to overcome prohibitive upfront costs and the ‘chicken and egg’ situation by incentivising developers to share grid connection and reinforcement costs.

We are encouraged that Ofgem is reviewing connection arrangements and we look forward to hearing more about the progress being made in the run up to 1 April 2023. We consider that due to the tight timeframes set by government …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

It is not equitable that grid reinforcement costs should be shared by consumers in an area because this would create a higher burden for rural households and businesses and those in areas which historically lack existing grid infrastructure. We ask Ofgem and the UK Government to define what is meant by the phrase “in the area” and to explain how they will ensure that rural or isolated communities will not be unduly burdened.

It is not equitable that grid reinforcement costs should be shared by consumers in an area because this would create a higher burden for rural households and businesses and those in areas which historically lack existing grid infrastructure. We ask …

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21 Oct 2022 | Committee report linked

We are encouraged to see the new Electricity Networks Commissioner appointed with a remit to reduce timelines and look forward to understanding in more detail how this will be achieved. However, it is not clear that the UK Government appreciates that a step change is necessary to deliver a streamlined planning and consent process that enables the achievement of net zero targets. We call on the UK Government to produce a projected timeline for how it will reduce processing times by fifty per c...

We are encouraged to see the new Electricity Networks Commissioner appointed with a remit to reduce timelines and look forward to understanding in more detail how this will be achieved. However, it is not clear that the UK Government appreciates …

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29 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

We received a considerable amount of evidence arguing that grid capacity issues are currently significantly hindering renewable energy deployment throughout Wales, and are likely to continue to do so in the future. If the UK Government is unaware of the severity of this issue, it would suggest that their engagement with stakeholders on issues affecting renewable energy development has not been sufficient.

We received a considerable amount of evidence arguing that grid capacity issues are currently significantly hindering renewable energy deployment throughout Wales, and are likely to continue to do so in the future. If the UK Government is unaware of the …

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28 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

The Government must work with National Grid to map the electricity network to assess potential weak areas, especially in rural locations, and to develop a plan to prevent ‘not-spots’ from emerging similar to those during the roll-out of broadband and mobile coverage.

The Government must work with National Grid to map the electricity network to assess potential weak areas, especially in rural locations, and to develop a plan to prevent ‘not-spots’ from emerging similar to those during the roll-out of broadband and …

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28 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

Project Rapid, which specifies the number of charge points on the strategic road network by 2023 and beyond, is welcome. However, the spending priorities for the £950 million rapid charging fund are currently obscure. Given the time and expense involved in upgrading grid connections, it is crucial that this money is distributed to unlock investment, provide fully future-proofed grid capacity and secure public confidence in charging infrastructure.

Project Rapid, which specifies the number of charge points on the strategic road network by 2023 and beyond, is welcome. However, the spending priorities for the £950 million rapid charging fund are currently obscure. Given the time and expense involved …

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28 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

The electric vehicle charging infrastructure strategy must set out: a) how the £950 million rapid charging fund will be spent to facilitate the implementation of charging infrastructure; and b) the measures that the Government is taking to identify and address under- provision at locations outside the strategic road network, where grid connection costs and grid upgrades are expensive and the business case for investment is weak.

The electric vehicle charging infrastructure strategy must set out: a) how the £950 million rapid charging fund will be spent to facilitate the implementation of charging infrastructure; and b) the measures that the Government is taking to identify and address …

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28 Jul 2021 | Committee report linked

The Government must amend the wayleave regime for installing charging infrastructure to ensure that that regime does not act as a barrier to roll-out.

The Government must amend the wayleave regime for installing charging infrastructure to ensure that that regime does not act as a barrier to roll-out. Type: recommendation | Number: 12 | Paragraph: 60 | Response status: under_consideration Government response: The Government …

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19 May 2021 | Committee report linked

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, having assessed a number of different scenarios for meeting net zero by 2050, has estimated that electric cars will increase electricity demand by around 20% by 2050 and we wanted to understand the network’s ability to cope.53 The Department explained that the increase in demand for electric vehicles is set within the context of an overall doubling of demand for electricity by 2050. The Department is approaching this from the perspect...

The Department for Business, Energy & Industrial Strategy, having assessed a number of different scenarios for meeting net zero by 2050, has estimated that electric cars will increase electricity demand by around 20% by 2050 and we wanted to understand …

▤ View document · ↗ GOV.UK