The UK’s Electricity Networks Commissioner, Nick Winser, has published his independent report setting out recommendations to halve the total development time for transmission infrastructure.
Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK's energy network operators welcomed the report, saying:
"This major intervention from the networks commissioner provides a welcome focus on the changes needed to our regulatory regime and the planning processes which govern essential infrastructure developments.
"We welcome the opportunity to continue to work with the Commissioner and the Government to take these recommendations forward at pace.
"The proposed reforms will create a strong and strategic framework which looks at the whole energy system and takes a long-term view. This will help developers, planners, communities and customers and is essential if we are to meet the government’s 2050 net zero goal."
Notes to editor
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.