A broad coalition of charities, environmental and anti-poverty groups, as well as trade associations representing the breadth of the UK energy industry, have today called on the Government to empower Ofgem with a net zero mandate, otherwise progress towards meeting the UK’s net zero goals could stall.
With a mandate, the letter identified how Ofgem can remove barriers to investment in the low-cost, low-carbon energy system the energy sector and environmental groups are all working towards. The Energy Security Bill is the prime opportunity to deliver this change. Alongside calls for a net zero duty, the letter urges Government to publish the long-awaited Strategic Policy Statement to Ofgem so the energy regulator can properly incorporate net zero into its decision making.
Lawrence Slade, Chief Executive, Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK’s energy network operators, said:
“The foundations of our future energy system are already being built and the regulatory decisions that determine our ability to meet the UK’s decarbonisation targets are being made by Ofgem today.
“Empowering Ofgem with a net zero mandate will enable strategic investment, removing a clear barrier to investment in the low-cost, low-carbon energy system we are all working towards.”
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.