NW power network operator CEO urges regulator to support ‘green’ spending call

The CEO of the North West power network operator, Electricity North West, has called on energy regulator, Ofgem, to continue investing in local networks to help meet national clean energy targets.

It follows an announcement by the Stockport-based organisation a fortnight ago that it has developed a £200m investment plan to support continued clean growth through expansion of critical infrastructure.

Ian Smyth said: “Last week’s National Infrastructure Commission report highlights the need for further and faster investment if we are going to hit the ambitious clean power goals set by the government.

“As a regional network operator in an area with an economy growing faster than the UK as a whole, we are uniquely placed to deliver.

“We’re ready to go, but it’s not going to happen without investment.”

He added: “Rather than sit on our hands until the next price control in 2028, we’ve proactively set out the additional £200m investment needed in our critical infrastructure now.

“We know it’s needed to support growth, we know it’s backed by our regional stakeholders and we know that it will ultimately enable residents, businesses and communities to make low carbon choices, ensuring a just transition in the most efficient way.”

The organisation is two years into a record £2b five-year investment programme, and its latest plan sets out the need for an extra £200m investment over the next three years, driven by new customer demand.

Electricity North West submitted plans to Ofgem with strong support from more than 20 regional stakeholders, including regional MPs, councils and Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham, to increase overall investment in the region’s grid to meet growing power demand.

The funding, if approved, would boost network capacity and support new businesses, clean power generation and storage, the electrification of public transport, and the deployment of electric vehicle fast chargers.

The investment will also contribute to the Government’s target of achieving clean power by 2030 and help deliver new jobs across the North West while allowing people to develop the necessary skills to sustain economic growth and build a green economy.

Electricity North West hopes to have Ofgem’s approval on its submission in September.