The voice of the networks

How can this website be improved? Give us your feedback

Energy networks respond to Heat and Buildings Strategy publication

19 October 2021

 

The government has published its long-awaited Heat and Buildings Strategy which aims to reduce household heating and buildings emissions, and includes an additional £65m to help manage increased demands on the UK’s electricity system.

David Smith, Chief Executive at Energy Networks Association which represents Great Britain’s energy networks said:

“Decarbonising heat is a tough nut to crack, but heat pumps and other low carbon technology like it will be key. Today’s plan from government sets the country on the path to a greener future. Central to delivering these plans, and impossible without them, are our energy networks which provide the backbone for keeping Britain’s energy flowing. We are unlocking choice for customers by preparing gas pipes for hydrogen and the electricity grid for more electric vehicles, heat pumps, wind and renewable power."

The government has also announced a further £65 million for the Flexibility Innovation Programme which will deliver funding for a range of innovative projects that will help manage increased demands on the UK’s electricity system.

David Smith added:

“The UK’s networks are world-leaders in flexibility. Simply put, flexibility is about changing where or when electricity is consumed or generated, levelling out peaks in demand as we move to a greener future. Heat pumps, when paired with storage or well-insulated homes, can be a key source of this flexibility. The additional funding for innovation will help us deliver this - and Net Zero - while keeping costs as low as possible.”

Press contacts for journalists

Peter Kocen

Senior Press and Public Affairs Manager

+44 (0)20 4599 7665

peter.kocen@energynetworks.org

ENA Press Office

press@energynetworks.org

 

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.

More information