Britain’s new National Energy System Operator (NESO) has officially been launched.
The new independent organisation is now responsibile for planning Britain’s entire energy system, operating the electricity network and offering expert advice to the energy sector’s decision makers.
Until now, no single body has been responsible for overseeing the strategic planning and design of the country’s electricity and gas networks.
NESO says it will fill this gap – breaking down the siloes which currently exist between the planning of electricity and gas systems, with independent oversight for the design of all Great Britain’s energy networks.
It’s hoped the move will enable investors to build out new energy infrastructure with confidence in how their project will fit into the country’s wider clean energy plan.
The new independent body will support the government’s rapid action to accelerate to net zero.
This is a pivotal moment as we head closer to the launch of the National Energy System Operator on 1 October. NESO will support a more integrated and coordinated strategy to meet the unprecedented challenges of climate change, ensuring security of energy supply and keeping bills as low as possible.
“NESO brings together critical roles and responsibilities under one roof, creating an environment that is essential for success. We will have a broad strategic oversight of both the electricity and gas systems, managing system planning, market operations, and ensuring that our energy infrastructure is secure, resilient, flexible, and future-proof.
Paul Golby, Chair of Neso
We are excited to take this bold step forward to help unify and optimise our national approach to energy and to deliver the clean, secure, decarbonised energy system that is affordable and fit for the future.
We are ready, and look forward to providing expert independent advice and working collaboratively across all parts of the energy sector, with government, the regulator and within our communities across Great Britain.
Fintan Slye, Chief Executive of NESO