Today the Chancellor announced his Growth Plan that seeks to release the 'huge potential' in the British economy by tackling high energy costs and inflation. The announcement included the commitment to introduce new legislation aimed at cutting planning barriers and restrictions and so speeding up the deployment of energy infrastructure.
David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association, which represents the UK's network operators responded to today's announcements:
"Legislation to remove unnecessary barriers to the creation of essential energy infrastructure is a pragmatic step in the right direction, provided it doesn’t delay existing vital policy already in the works.
“The news from government today could accelerate the role renewables and hydrogen can play in the country's transition to Net Zero and help speed the creation of a smarter, more resilient energy network.”
Press contacts for journalists
Philip Baker
Media Relations Manager
ENA Press Office
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.