Government has published an Energy Digitalisation Strategy and an update to the Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan.
Responding, David Smith, Chief Executive of Energy Networks Association which represents the UK and Ireland’s gas and electricity network operators said:
“Transforming traditional energy networks with digital innovations is a foundational part of putting customers at the heart of the Net Zero journey. It makes networks smarter, more flexible and more able to manage increases in local renewable generation, green gas, heat pumps and electric vehicles.
"The publication of the Smart Systems and Flexibility Plan along with the Energy Digitalisation Strategy is a huge sign of progress towards the intelligent and adaptive energy system which the energy networks have already begun building.”
Responding to the consultation on the future of the system operator, David continued:
"With considerable digitalisation, decentralisation, and decarbonisation happening across the energy sector to unlock Net Zero, it makes sense to look at the role of the Electricity System Operator in supporting net zero. We'll study this consultation carefully and continue to work with BEIS and Ofgem to develop the future of this role."
Press contacts for journalists
Peter Kocen
Senior Press and Public Affairs Manager
+44 (0)7792 220 974
peter.kocen@energynetworks.org
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.