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Energy networks respond to plans to boost a smarter, digitalised energy system


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.”

We are the voice of the networks

We represent the energy networks in the UK & Ireland.
Our members operate the wires and pipes which keep your energy flowing.

The wires and pipes are the arteries of our economy, delivering energy to over 30 million homes and businesses across the UK and Ireland. To do this safely and reliably, the businesses which run the networks employ 45,000 people (36,000 in Great Britain) and have invested more than £100 billion since privatisation.

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We represent: Cadent, Electricity North West, ESB Networks, GTC, National Grid, National Grid ESO, Northern Gas Networks, Northern Ireland Electricity Networks, Northern Powergrid, Scottish & Southern Electricity Networks, SGN, SP Energy Networks, UK Power Networks, Wales & West Utilities and Western Power Distribution. See our full list of members.