Energy Networks Association’s (ENA) gas members have undertaken a review of their membership and have decided that, in view of the changing energy policy landscape, their interests are best served by leaving ENA at the end of 2024.
There is unanimous agreement amongst ENA’s Board that the interests of members, employees, customers and stakeholders are best served through an orderly transition. ENA’s Board has committed to working together to that end. In the meantime, Cadent, Northern Gas Networks, Wales & West Utilities, SGN and National Gas remain full members of ENA and, in the short term, ENA’s operations will continue unchanged.
ENA’s Board will take the opportunity to review the association’s strategy, recognising ENA's central role in supporting its members to enable the energy transition. The ENA Board and the ESO will also consider how ENA and its members best interact with the Future System Operator going forward, as the ESO transitions into its new role as an independent public corporation.
Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of ENA, said:
“Twenty years after the association was established, the energy and political landscape has changed massively and continues to change. Following the decision of the gas networks and given the scale and importance of net zero, we will now undertake a strategic review to ensure that our team, who are at the heart of the organisation, have the best support and structure to help deliver the net zero future for the country.
“I’m confident that by working with our gas and electricity colleagues, and the great ENA staff team, to manage this transition carefully, we will deliver best value for all our members, stakeholders and customers involved now and in the future.”
Phil Jones, Chairman of the ENA, said:
“Today’s news doesn't change the commitment of the companies remaining in the association. We firmly believe that ENA is best placed to support us working together to enable net zero and tackle the challenges that lie ahead. That’s what ENA has enabled us to do as a sector consistently: deliver better outcomes for our customers across the board. Projects like the 105 three digit number for power cuts, industry-wide collaboration on storm and pandemic response and most recently some significant reforms in the connections framework. As we navigate the transition into the next chapter in the organisation’s history, I am confident the dedicated team at ENA will continue to support the networks to deliver for customers as we play our part in enabling net zero for the country.”
Notes to editor
ENA was originally established in 2003 as a membership body made up of electricity network companies. Gas network members joined the organisation shortly thereafter.
About Energy Networks Association
Energy Networks Association (ENA) is the industry body representing the electricity wires, gas pipes and energy system in the UK and Ireland.
ENA helps its members meet the challenge of delivering electricity and gas to communities across the UK and Ireland safely, sustainably and reliably.
Its members include every major electricity and gas network operator in the UK and Ireland, independent operators, National Grid ESO which operates the electricity system in Great Britain and National Gas which operates the gas system in Great Britain. Its affiliate membership also includes companies with an interest in energy, including Heathrow Airport and Network Rail.
What are energy network operators?
Energy network operators manage and maintain the wires, pipes and other infrastructure which delivers electricity and gas to your home, business and community. They are private companies which are regulated by Ofgem and employ around 40,000 people in Great Britain.