Source · Select Committees · Welsh Affairs Committee
Recommendation 17
17
Accepted
Paragraph: 72
Strategic planning of grid infrastructure will be essential for accommodating future GW targets in the...
Recommendation
Strategic planning of grid infrastructure will be essential for accommodating future GW targets in the Celtic Sea. National Grid ESO have stated that proposals on how to develop the network in the region will be given when more detail is known on the capacity and location of future floating offshore wind projects. Visibility of future targets in the Celtic Sea and a clear roadmap will therefore be essential for the timely planning of grid infrastructure. To accommodate these targets in time the UK Government will also need to provide anticipatory investment and seek ways to overcome delays in improving the network.
Government Response Summary
The government will deliver anticipatory investment through Ofgem's price control, allocating £3.1bn for network upgrades, and has appointed an Electricity Networks Commissioner to advise on further improvements, with an action plan due later in the year.
Paragraph Reference:
72
Government Response
Accepted
HM Government
Accepted
The Government is working with Ofgem, network companies and others to deliver anticipatory investment and enable renewable generation. Ofgem’s price control funds investment in the network for new connections. As part of the 2023–28 electricity distribution network price control, Ofgem will allow £3.1bn for network upgrades. These actions should reduce connection timescales for projects across the country. Accelerating the delivery of electricity network infrastructure is a high priority for Government. We have already taken action to improve strategic planning and speed up consenting and regulatory approvals, and have appointed Nick Winser as Electricity Networks Commissioner to advise on how we can go further. We will respond with an action plan later this year.